JSGS Policy Brief - Graduate School of Public Policy

JSGS Policy Brief

The Policy Brief is a digital publication, written by JSGS scholars and leading policy experts, to provide context and perspective on important public issues and to further discussion and debate within the public sector. It provides policy makers and those interested in policy formation with timely and expert analysis, observations and potential policy approaches to relevant issues concerning the public.

If you have a subject idea that is current, topical and relevant to the public policy debate, and are interested in authoring a brief, contact the Policy Brief editor, Dale Eisler.

Jun 24, 2025

Public Money, Private Priorities: The Impact of Education Policy Shifts on Democracy, Equity, and Local Governance in Saskatchewan

What happens when a public system no longer answers to the public it serves?

Jun 4, 2025

Is the federal public service too big? An analysis of public service employment trends: 2015-24

Prime Minister Mark Carney has indicated his government will undertake a spending review as part of a goal to reduce the federal deficit. It will include whether the federal public service meets the needs of Canadians. This Policy Paper explores the growth of the public service during the last 10 years.

May 20, 2025

The need for a new approach to Canada-U.S. Diplomacy

Canada’s relationship with the U.S. is complex, asymmetrical, and fundamental to Canada’s economic prosperity. It is also entering a period of great uncertainty that requires a fundamental rethinking of Canada’s diplomatic engagement with the U.S.

Apr 30, 2025

Navigating the Fog of Trump’s Trade War

The global economy is facing major instability, especially due to the Trump administration’s trade policies, which have permanently disrupted free trade with the U.S. and the global trading system. Canada must act quickly with bold policy changes to stay competitive and find new export markets.

Apr 10, 2025

Should Canada Engage in a Tariff War with the US?

The threat of tariffs has dominated minds across Canada since the US government proposed them more than two months ago. They are causing a distressing and, perhaps, unnecessary concern among Canadians, mostly about the chaos that the uncertainty is creating.

Apr 3, 2025

Well-Woven or Frayed? Community Ties Across Saskatchewan

One of the most pressing issues we have in the province of Saskatchewan is to increase the number and quality of our connections with each other.