In 2025, Canadian voters elected the first 4 MPs born in the 21^st century. They join 34 other MPs under age 40. These younger voices are still very much the minority in Parliament, at just 11% of all elected members.

To ensure a fair hearing of issues affecting their generations, a cross-party committee of Millennial and Gen Z MPs should serve as a catalyst for building a Canada where all ages can thrive.

All major federal parties already acknowledge the escalating challenges faced by many young people – like unaffordable housing, rising student debt, lack of child care, increasing unemployment, growing climate anxiety and declining hopefulness and happiness. Bringing together young MPs to shine a light on these issues will inform and stimulate debate, document the value-add of investing in the future prospects of younger generations, and educate other parliamentarians and the public on intergenerationally fair ways to support Canada’s economy and environment at a time of population aging.

The newly created Cabinet Committee on Quality of Life and Wellbeing can provide political leadership at the Cabinet table.

A focus on long-term wellbeing for present and future generations is consistent with the committee’s mandate to “augment the overall quality of life and well-being of Canadians.” Cabinet leadership also will help pave the way for Canada to deliver on its commitment to “safeguard the needs and interests of future generations” under the 2024 UN Declaration on Future Generations. Gen Squeeze's 2024 report card make clear that Ottawa has a great deal left to do.