6.11 Citizenship is an Active Process



Citizenship at local, national, and global levels has several aspects. In our towns, cities, and provinces, and within our country, we have both rights and responsibilities within the framework of our communities.

What does it mean to be a global citizen? The following video is an introduction to this concept


Participation in the electoral process is both a right and a responsibility of local, provincial, and national citizenship. As voters in a democracy, adult citizens are the decision makers. They elect candidates to represent them at city hall, in the provincial legislature, and in the federal House of Commons or take a more active role by running for office. In addition, they can campaign for individuals or political parties. After being voted into power, elected officials make decisions on the behalf of voters. Decision making in a democratic society involves negotiation, compromise, and consensus.


Global Citizenship and the Electoral Process

We do not vote for global leaders or global decisions, so how can we participate in any kind of global electoral process?

Our provincial and federal leaders represent us on the international stage, and we do vote for them. We need to consider their global perspective when we choose our Canadian representatives. What is the foreign policy of the different political parties? What do they believe about global interactions? Do they believe transnational corporations should have unlimited power? Do they have plans to deal with global warming? Do they promote international human rights? Do they want to see Indigenous rights protected?

If we take our right to obtain knowledge seriously, we can learn about their policies and elect leaders who will work towards creating a better world.



With rights come responsibilities. Each person has responsibilities in each of the following:

Responsibilities related to fundamental freedoms:

  • conscience and religion

  • thought and expression

  • assembly

  • association

Responsibilities related to democratic rights:

  • freedom to vote

  • freedom to support candidates and positions

  • freedom to run for office

  • freedom to speak out

Responsibilities related to legal rights:

  • protection from imprisonment without trial

  • right to legal representation

  • protection from excessive punishment


Responsibilities related to equality rights:

  • protection from discrimination

  • equal treatment under the law

Responsibilities related to economic rights:

  • property rights

  • protection from extreme poverty