Representation in Isolation

Following the suspension of Parliament, this report examines how MPs have experienced the pandemic, and charts a way forward.

Whipped Book Launch

Watch former MP Megan Leslie and award-winning author Alex Marland discuss his new book, Whipped: Party Discipline in Canada.

How Incivility Harms Politics

Four ways online incivility harms Canadian politics

While passion and anger are important in politics, find out why incivility can have real costs for our democracy.

Resources for Elected Leaders

A selection of non-partisan resources that can assist elected representatives in defining their role and priorities.

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The Samara Centre for Democracy is a non-partisan charity dedicated to strengthening Canada’s democracy. The Samara Centre produces innovative, action-oriented research that illuminates the evidence and reforms needed to make Canadian politics more accessible, responsive, and inclusive. Through original engagement programming, we provide active citizens and public leaders with tools and resources designed to engage Canadians in their democracy.

As the pandemic continues, political leaders and institutions are being forced to adapt. Explore the state of democracy in a state of emergency with our Democracy Monitor.

Our latest book uses the stories and experiences of former MPs to put forward a vision of democratic representation that is independent, thoughtful, engaged, and empowered.

Rick Mercer, political satirist, author, Samara Centre board member

"I love [the Samara Centre]. It's an amazing charity. Its entire reason for being is to inspire Canadians to become more involved in democracy. What's not to love? They aren't stuffy, they've got a great sense of humour. If you love politics, you could spend hours on their website."
— Rick Mercer, Political Satirist and Board Member