We're all in this together

Generations love one another within families. We want to bring that love and solidarity into the world of politics, because building a Canada that works for all generations is something that we have to do together.

If our child or grandparent needs help, we act. And it’s likely we wouldn’t propose actions that place unfair burdens on some family members, because our overarching goal is to set up the entire family for wellbeing over the long-term.

The same model should apply to governments. Generational solidarity requires that governments consider and adapt to the needs of different age groups in their decisions about where to invest and raise revenue, to advance the wellbeing of all generations now and in the future.

Foster generational reciprocity

The principle of generational reciprocity reminds us that each generation should pay for the things it wants and uses, contributing in proportion to the needs, opportunities, and wealth it inherits. This doesn’t mean each generation should contribute equally – but it does mean each generation should contribute fairly.

We can’t live up to this principle when we use the lion’s share of the proceeds of economic growth today to respond to the needs of one age group, without leaving enough to address the needs of others. Yet since 1976, governments have increased per person spending on retirees 4 times faster than spending on younger Canadians, despite younger people struggling with declining wages, rising costs, and a deteriorating environment. This disproportionate increase in spending then becomes the rationale for why there is little money left over to invest in things like child care, affordable housing, postsecondary education, or fighting climate change.