Canada’s Carney calls for unity as Alberta prepares for secession vote
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has issued a plea for national unity as the province of Alberta prepares for a non-binding referendum on secession. The movement is driven by economic grievances regarding federal energy policies and has drawn international attention.
Why it matters
The potential secession of an oil-rich province poses a significant threat to Canada's economic stability and national integrity.
Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Thanksgiving message comes a week ahead of Alberta’s vote on a separatism referendum.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announce development on a major infrastructure project in Fort McMurray, Alberta, on October 1, 2026 [File: Todd Korol/Reuters] By Al Jazeera Staff and The Associated Press Published On 12 Oct 2026 12 Oct 2026 Prime Minister Mark Carney has used his Thanksgiving message to Canadians to call for national unity, a week before the oil-rich province of Alberta is set to vote on a proposal to secede from Canada.
“We can’t build big things on fault lines,” Carney said in his video message on Monday, warning that Canada faces threats to its economy, security and way of life.
“We have to be strong, and we are stronger together.”
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