As our final meeting of the Ottawa Study Tour, the OLIP interns had the honour of meeting with MP Yves-François Blanchet, Leader of the Bloc Québécois.    Formerly a teacher and columnist for Le Nouvelliste,  MP Blanchet rose to a political career in 2008, most recently securing leadership in 2025 for the third-largest party in Parliament. Our conversation offered a nuanced glimpse into Québec’s politics on a federal platform. We discussed the balance between environmental an

During our Study Tour in Ottawa, a notably unique experience the interns enjoyed was visiting the U.K. High Commission. We were honoured to have the opportunity to explore the new establishment on Sussex Drive, comprising a state-of-the-art building within the Earnscliffe National Historic Site.    Following a brief tour of the building, the interns had the opportunity to meet with Deputy High Commissioner, David Prodger; and Diplomats, Giorgia Racis, Cameron Ballester, and D

During our Ottawa Study Tour, the interns had the wonderful opportunity to tour the Senate of Canada, where we explored the historical foundations, function, and ceremonial traditions of one of Canada’s most significant democratic institutions.  As we entered the beautifully restored building, once Ottawa’s iconic train station, we were greeted by a Senate guide who introduced us to the chamber’s unique architectural blend of heritage and modern design. We learned about the s

During our study tour in Ottawa, the interns were delighted to meet with Gabriela Loredana Alexandru, Head of Political Affairs Section, Delegation of the European Union to Canada.  With the capital city horizon behind us, the EU hosted us at a roundtable of member states. It was an opportunity to discuss Canada-EU relations at their heart, as well as raise our own interests as they related to international relations, trade policy, and other political areas. Over the course o

During our Ottawa Study Tour, the interns enjoyed a tour of the Supreme Court of Canada, where we learned more about the history, role, and inner workings of Canada’s highest court.  As we stepped into the grand building overlooking the Ottawa River, we were welcomed by a Supreme Court guide, who walked us through the institution’s rich history. Although the Court was established in 1875, it did not become the final court of appeal until 1949, meaning Canadians could still ap