Canada 2023 Survey Analysis: Economy, Politics, and Social Issues

Overview

In 2023, a nationwide survey was conducted in Canada to explore several aspects, including the economy, politics, and social issues. Key findings revealed that the majority of Canadians viewed the rising cost of living (73%) and housing affordability and accessibility (47%) as the most pressing issues. Meanwhile, the OECD Economic Survey suggested that global price pressures were affecting Canada's economy, and policymakers were grappling with balancing inflation control and avoiding a recession. Furthermore, a separate study indicated that economic anxiety was prevalent in Canada, with high levels of stress reported particularly among women, and confidence in political leaders' ability to tackle economic challenges was alarmingly low.

Economy

The economic snapshot from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) showed that while Canada was experiencing a robust recovery from the pandemic, high global inflation posed significant challenges. Unemployment rates were reaching historic lows, but this progress came at a cost, as price pressures led consumers to tighten their belts. As a result, the federal government introduced measures aimed at alleviating economic strains, such as extending living-cost relief and enhancing provisions for housing and childcare affordability. However, long-term expenditure plans would complicate budgetary improvements without increased tax and spending efficiency.

Politics

Canada's political landscape was marked by shifting allegiances among generations when it came to electoral preferences. The Conservatives were leading across all regions except Quebec, gaining support from both genders and different age groups, including Gen Z. On economic issues, Gen Z voters favored either the Conservative or New Democratic Party (NDP) as the best positioned to address their concerns, with the Conservatives perceived to tackle macroeconomic challenges more effectively and the NDP advocating for social policies better suited to addressing inequality and poverty.

Social Issues

The Canadian Social Survey revealed that topics such as health, climate change, and trust in government were considered important social issues by Canadians. Among them, younger generations like Gen Z placed greater emphasis on issues related to poverty, inequality, and indigenous reconciliation compared to older demographics. This alignment also extended to environmental concerns, where Gen Z and Millennials prioritized climate change more than Boomer counterparts.

In summary, the Canada survey findings highlighted rising economic anxiety and emphasized the need for effective political leadership and policy changes to address key issues. Younger generations, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, are seeking solutions for socioeconomic stability and pressing for action against climate change while pursuing longstanding goals such as housing affordability and healthcare accessibility.

Explore the key findings from a nationwide survey conducted in Canada in 2023, focusing on economic challenges, political landscape, and social issues. Learn about the impact of rising cost of living, shifting political preferences, and generational differences in addressing important social topics.