Building National Resilience Program
The Building National Resilience Program brings together government executives to examine how various countries have advanced their national resilience in the context of emergencies and threats, and to then use these lessons learned to explore ways to bolster Canada's own resilience.
About
Along with so many other countries, Canada is navigating a rapid global transformation marked by increased international competition, technological advancements and climate change. This new global environment features rising geopolitical risks, an increasing tempo, and more severe threats, which, in turn, requires greater domestic strength through the prioritization of national sovereignty, economic resilience, and trade diversification.
This program brings together government executives to examine how various countries have advanced their national resilience in the context of emergencies and threats, and to then use these lessons learned to explore ways to bolster Canada's own resilience. Participants will use these insights and practical lessons to learn about the Canadian context, existing commitments, gaps, and possible next steps to inform efforts to strengthen resilience in Canada.
During this cohort-based program, participants will:
- engage with leading experts involved in resilience efforts, from academia, the private sector, federal organizations and non-governmental organizations, from both Canada and abroad
- expand their understanding of foreign and allied resilience approaches, as well as Canada's own approaches to modern threats and emergencies
- engage in critical thinking and debate on what is required for Canada to better organize itself to build resilience
- reflect on the importance of leadership and collaboration across different levels of government and the broader Canadian society
- explore the different frameworks and considerations involved in federal crisis response through an analysis of fictive crises
Notes
This program will invite experts from Canada and abroad to explain resilience approaches from selected countries, from their design to how they work in practice. Participants will equally gain access to a collaborative and broadened professional network that is attuned to the importance of building understanding and leadership on resilience across the federal government.
Schedule
The Building National Resilience Program requires a commitment of approximately 15 hours of classroom learning over two consecutive days. The program includes:
- two full-day in-person group learning modules (participants are expected to attend these modules at the School's facilities in Ottawa)
- approximately three hours of course readings and preparatory activities
- small group work and end-of-course presentations
Cohort theme
- Lessons from Finland (fall 2026, spring 2027): These cohorts will explore Finland's Comprehensive Security model, an established approach to resilience in the context of specific geopolitical threats, with relevant insights for Canada on the importance of preparedness, leadership and whole-of-society efforts.
Eligibility
Participants must be nominated through their organization, followed by a selection process conducted by the Canada School of Public Service. To be nominated, participants must be a substantive EX or equivalent. Acting EXs may also be nominated so long as their acting term is valid for the duration of their cohort.
Executives interested in being considered for this program can contact their organization's executive development office or learning coordinator to indicate their interest.
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