Canada is set to swear in a new governor general. But what is a governor general? Let’s get you caught up!
What is a governor general?
We’ve covered this extensively in social studies, but to recap: the governor general is Canada’s official representative for King Charles III. Canada, of course, is a constitutional monarchy, and the King of England is also the King of Canada – a role that technically makes King Charles our head of state. But the King – and his official representative, the person serving as governor general – is more of a figurehead (though both hold some real power), with the prime minister serving as our head of government.
What does the governor general do exactly?
The governor general handles key duties in our system of government so that the monarch doesn’t have to oversee daily tasks in Canada. For example, the GG performs important constitutional roles such as giving royal assent to laws passed by Parliament, dissolving Parliament for elections, appointing senators and Supreme Court justices, and signing orders into law. As commander-in-chief, the GG oversees the Canadian Armed Forces (in name only), while also representing Canada abroad, promoting excellence in culture, and (in theory) uniting Canadians through ceremonies and visits.
Who appoints the governor general?
Our head of state, the King, technically appoints the governor general by issuing a commission under the Great Seal of Canada. In practice, however, it is the prime minister who recommends the candidate for swearing-in, usually after consulting an advisory group, and that recommendation is what effectively determines who will serve as governor general.
Who is our outgoing governor general?
Mary Simon has served as our 30th governor general since 2021, making history as the first Indigenous person in the role. Her Honour focused on Inuit rights, Arctic issues, and unity. Her five-year term will end at some point in the next few months when our new governor general is sworn-in.
Who will serve as our next governor general?
Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Louise Arbour, a bilingual former Supreme Court justice, will serve as the 31st governor general. Arbour is well-known and well-respected in Canada and internationally, having prosecuted war crimes at UN tribunals in Rwanda and Yugoslavia, served as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and led reviews on military culture and migration.
What will Arbour bring to the role of governor general?
Arbour has legal expertise in human rights, Charter protections, and international justice, as well as a track record of stabilizing democratic institutions, promoting the rule of law, and reflecting Canadian values on the global stage. Her background strengthens French-language representation, and as governor general, she is likely to focus on issues of national unity, democratic health, and Canadian sovereignty.