Prime Minister Mark Carney’s visit to Mexico on September 18 – 19, 2025, was widely seen in the Canadian mainstream and ethnic media as well as international sources as part of a strategic reset of the Canada - Mexico relationship ahead of the 2026 review of the Canada - United States - Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). 

Tariffs and Tensions

Both Canada and Mexico are heavily reliant on trade with the US and severely impacted by US tariffs. El Financiero in Mexico City commented that US President Donald Trump's tariffs on steel and autos have “wounded” both countries, yet neither has successfully negotiated relief alone (El Financiero, September 18, 2025). Toronto’s East FM Tamil radio called the tariffs a nuisance and reminded listeners of President Donald Trump’s threats to force Canada to become the 51st state as a rationale for Canada “teaming up” with Mexico (East FM 102.7, September 20, 2025).

At minimum, the visit signaled an intention to strengthen bilateral relations and coordinate approaches to the trilateral pact rather than throwing each other under the proverbial bus, as former finance minister Chrystia Freeland and Premier Doug Ford had suggested (Globe and Mail, September 16, 2025). The encounter followed Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum’s participation in the G7 summit in Alberta, where she was invited based on pressure from the Canadian business world in hopes for a turnaround in bilateral relations tainted by Freeland’s and Ford’s comments (OMNI Italian, September 18, 2025). 

Calls for Unity

Mainstream and ethnic Canadian media as well as international media widely agreed on the importance for Canada of having Mexico as an ally in negotiations with the US and of diversifying trade partners. Business Council of Canada CEO Goldy Hyder told OMNI Italian that there definitely is more untapped potential in the Mexico-Canada relationship, and that the meeting was also a chance to align better on how they are going to manage the CUSMA process. He added that each country talking about cutting each other out is not in either country's interest when they are in a room with a president who likes to win by having others lose (OMNI Italian, September 18, 2025).

La Presse showed Carney during a symbolic visit to the Canadian Pacific Railway Kansas City (CPKC) marshalling yard. This Canadian company's 32,000 km rail network is the only one to connect all of North America, from Montreal to Mexico City. It is a symbol of free trade between Canada, the United States, and Mexico (La Presse, September 22, 2025). 

Photo-Op or Tangible Progress?

While Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre relegated the trip to a photo-op, El Financiero argued that the joint press conference Thursday represented more than diplomatic theatre and that it was an economic necessity. “The lesson is clear: in Trump's transactional world, North America's junior partners must present a united front or risk being picked off individually in the coming trade negotiations” (El Financiero, September 18, 2025).

There are concrete outcomes to the meeting: Carney and Sheinbaum signed a three-year commitment to a strategic partnership covering trade, investment, energy corridors, security, migration, climate and infrastructure. They highlighted that this was “complementary” to CUSMA and emphasized their optimism about North America remaining the most competitive region in the world by collaborating closely at the continental level (OMNI Punjabi, September 19, 2025). Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand promised that the responsible ministers would review progress on the action plan every three months.

The trip was timed to coincide with the launch of public consultations in all three countries leading up to the CUSMA review. Minister Responsible for Canada-US Trade Dominic LeBlanc announced from Mexico City that they are looking for very specific suggestions from Canadian industry and Canadian workers in terms of what they might advance at the review table with the US (OMNI Italian, September 19, 2025). 

The Business Angle

The visit also involved a roundtable with Canadian and Mexican business leaders. El Universal in Mexico City highlighted that Canadian Senator Peter Boehm, Laura Macdonald of Carleton University’s Institute of Political Economy, and Flavio Volpe of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers' Association have spoken out against Canadian politicians who disparage Mexico and have said that Canada does indeed need Mexico. 

They cited University of Toronto Professor Nelson Wiseman as postulating that Mexico and Canada now share a common threat in the United States. Like many news media, they also underlined that Mexico is Canada’s third-biggest trading partner after the US and China, while Canada was Mexico’s fifth-biggest trading partner in 2024 (El Universal, September 18, 2025).

International Observations

International media such as the Polish TVN24 in Warsaw and the Korean News 1 concur that the visit was an important step to repair diplomatic relations after Canadian politicians called for bilateral deals with the US, and that unity between Canada and Mexico was important to their strategic positioning ahead of the CUSMA review (TVN24, September 19, 2025). News 1 in Seoul noted predictions that this review could lead to a substantive "renegotiation" rather than a simple "review" (News 1, September 19, 2025).
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Across languages and continents, the visit was read as more than a polite diplomatic exchange. Canadian and international media emphasized survival in the face of U.S. tariffs, solidarity in the bilateral alliance and strategic timing. Together, these perspectives sketch a bigger picture: the beaver and the eagle aren’t just rebuilding a nest - they’re trying to fortify it before the coming storm.

Contact MIREMS to discover how our expertise in decoding these multilingual narratives can fortify your strategies in this new era - essential intelligence for Canada's pivot. 

On June 16, 2025, viewers of Iranian state television got more than the news. During a live broadcast on Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), Israeli airstrikes targeted the station. The scene was surreal: shouts off-camera, dust in the newsroom, and anchor Sahar Emami heroically continuing her broadcast. That footage instantly turned Emami into a national icon.

But not everyone saw the moment as a tragedy. Iran International, an opposition-run media outlet abroad, reported that many Iranians viewed the strike as "a long-overdue punch to the face of the Islamic Republic." To them, IRIB isn’t just a news channel - it’s a mouthpiece for state propaganda, and a tool for disinformation and forced confessions (https://www.iranintl.com/en/202506198051).

The dramatic event was more than just an explosion caught on camera - it symbolized how information itself has become a battlefield. In a time when both Iran and Israel are fighting for control over the narrative, it’s not just bombs flying - it’s competing truths.

A few days later, on June 19, CNN’s Fred Pleitgen toured the smoldering remains of the studio. What was once a bustling newsroom now smelled like smoke, with melted equipment and abandoned lunches left behind on charred desks. Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian visited the wreckage on June 21, vowing, “The voice of truth cannot be silenced.” But ironically, his government had shut down the country's Internet three days earlier.

According to Reporters Without Borders, more than 90 million Iranians lost access to the Internet - an information blackout that’s been strongly condemned as a violation of the right to information (https://rsf.org/en/internet-blackout-iran-rsf-condemns-information-blackout-orchestrated-regime-amid-war-israel). Several Iranian news websites like Alef (www.alef.ir) and Kayhan (http://kayhan.ir) were not accessible as of June 24.

Across the border, Israel hasn’t exactly kept the press free either. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) raised concerns about media censorship, pointing out that media outlets need military approval before reporting from missile impact areas. Israel banned Al Jazeera reporters from the country in May, and on the same day as the IRIB strike, raided Palestinian journalists in Haifa (https://cpj.org/2025/06/israel-censors-foreign-press-coverage-of-iranian-strike-sites/).

Al Jazeera, citing CPJ data, says that since October 2023, Israel has killed 178 journalists in Gaza. Reporters Without Borders has documented 35 cases of intentional targeting of journalists. CPJ fears that the impunity for this violence against journalists in Gaza may have emboldened Israel to strike the state media in Iran (https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/6/16/israel-bombs-irans-state-tv-after-threatening-it-would).

In this tangled web of violence and censorship, the media isn't just reporting the story - it is the story. While a right click on many foreign-language print articles can give a reader the gist of the article in passable English, intelligent media monitoring needs to be steeped in a knowledge of the country’s media universe, cultural expression and historical context. 
Understanding what’s really happening means looking beyond headlines. Iran’s media landscape is a complex mix. You've got official broadcasters like IRIB, government-friendly outlets such as the Tehran Times, Mehr News, and Tasnim News, and a shrinking space for semi-independent sources like Fararou, Etemad, Shargh, and Ham-Mihan. Meanwhile, opposition voices operate from exile, like Iran International in London, UK, which features analysis from diaspora scholars and opinion leaders. International media also plays a big role: the British government BBC Persian, Warner Bros.’ CNN, and the independent Arabic channel Al Jazeera all cover Iran, often leveraging social media and satellite TV to sidestep censorship.

In the Iranian state-owned and regime-aligned media, the Israel-Iran conflict is usually framed predominantly through ideological and religious lenses. Themes of Palestinian solidarity, anti-Zionism, and resistance against Western (especially U.S.) imperialism are prominent. Reporting portrays Israeli policies and military actions as aggressive and unjust and casts Iran’s policies in a defensive, justified light. The Persian-language outlets in exile and international media often feature critical perspectives on Iran’s policies. 

While international outlets state that they strive for objectivity, reporting is often coloured by the geopolitical leanings of the media’s home countries, ownership and target audience. International outlets also focus extensively on the international implications; for example, BBC Persian has reported on potential UK involvement in the conflict, Syria’s neutral stance, the regional risks of bombing nuclear facilities, global media reactions, and the dynamics of U.S. involvement.

And then there’s Canada. Canada’s Border Agency is cracking down on Iranian regime officials living in Canada (https://globalnews.ca/news/11261419/iran-regime-officials-canada-deportation-orders/), and Canada’s foreign affairs is worried about Iranian terrorist cells in Canada (https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/iranian-sleeper-cells-canada-1.7569480). What does the Iranian diaspora make of all this?

They keep tabs not only through international and homeland media, but also through the local Persian-language media. Iran Star in Markham offers bite-sized headlines and occasionally misleading commentary, stating, for example, that no one is allowed to provide news, photos or videos of today’s conditions anywhere in Israel. Iran Javan in Toronto zeroes in on Canadian connections - G7 talks, Prime Minister Mark Carney’s appeals to return to negotiations, and CSIS warnings that countries like Iran and India are using organized crime to silence critics abroad. The Persian Epoch Times, founded by Chinese immigrants, focuses on global ripples, like China’s ties to Iran and how those affect Russia. Experts like Professor Hooshang Hassanyari from the Royal Military College and Middle East analyst Shahram Kholdi contribute to Iran International.

Bottom line? Armed conflict isn’t just about missiles and soldiers - it’s about data, narratives, and who controls the mic. State actors and other players are running high-stakes information and disinformation campaigns to sway public opinion and shape global perception.
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In a world where a tweet can spark a riot and a satellite dish can be more powerful than a tank, smart, multilingual media analysis is more than useful - it’s essential.

​While Part I of this series examined how ethnic media interpreted the historic gains in representation and the dramatic reshaping of party dynamics, Part II shifts focus to the broader policy landscape and how diverse communities are responding to evolving national priorities. From trade tensions and industrial policy to foreign affairs and immigration enforcement, ethnic media continues to reflect a wide spectrum of perspectives—often raising questions overlooked in mainstream discourse. This segment explores how multilingual outlets are framing Canada's next steps and what their coverage reveals about emerging challenges and expectations in a rapidly diversifying political environment. 

Ethnicity and Political Affiliation: Punjabi and Chinese Representation

The 2025 election saw a record-breaking 22 MPs of Punjabi origin elected to Parliament, consolidating their position as one of Canada’s most politically active ethnic groups. This surge in representation was particularly evident in Brampton, where all five ridings elected Punjabi candidates. Ontario and British Columbia emerged as key hubs for South Asian communities, with Punjabi MPs playing a significant role in shaping the political landscape.
The Liberal Party remained the dominant choice for Punjabi representation, building on its successes in 2019 and 2021. This trend reflects the party's consistent outreach to immigrant communities and its policies supporting multiculturalism and social programs. The Conservative Party, although making some inroads, struggled to gain significant traction among Punjabi voters, while the NDP experienced a notable decline, partially attributed to the waning influence of Jagmeet Singh’s leadership.

For Chinese representation, 9 MPs were elected in 2025, primarily from urban centers in Ontario and British Columbia. The Liberal Party again secured the majority of Chinese representation, with prominent figures like Shaun Chen and Jean Yip leading the way in the Greater Toronto Area. However, the Conservative Party faced challenges in appealing to Chinese-Canadian voters, whose concerns over hardline stances on China and limited cultural engagement overshadowed the party’s economic platform.

The trends from 2019 and 2021 reveal a steady preference among Punjabi and Chinese communities for the Liberal Party, which has positioned itself as a champion of diversity and immigration. However, the 2025 election also highlighted the potential for these communities to consolidate further under targeted outreach and culturally relevant policies.

The Rise of Ethnic Representation in Canada

Ethnic representation in Parliament has grown steadily over the last three election cycles. In 2019, approximately 15% of MPs were from diverse ethnic backgrounds, a figure that increased to 18% in 2021 and reached 21% in 2025. This upward trajectory reflects the growing multicultural demographics of Canada, as well as the strategic efforts of political parties to engage immigrant communities.

Federal trends indicate that South Asians and Chinese Canadians are driving this rise in representation, particularly in urban ridings like Brampton, Mississauga, Vancouver, and Richmond. Provincially, these communities have also made significant gains. In Ontario, South Asians dominate ridings in Brampton and Mississauga, while Chinese representation is strongest in Markham and Scarborough. British Columbia continues to be a hub for Chinese representation, with South Asians gaining influence in Surrey and Burnaby.

Historically, this rise is part of a broader trend that began in the late 20th century as immigration reshaped Canada’s demographic landscape. However, the record-breaking representation in 2025 suggests that this is not merely a gradual shift but a reflection of concerted efforts by communities and political parties to ensure diverse voices are heard.

Other Ethnic Groups: New Voices and Persistent Gaps

While Punjabi and Chinese communities dominated the narrative of ethnic representation in 2025, other groups also made significant strides. Filipino-Canadian MP Rechie Valdez, elected under the Liberal Party, became the first Filipino-Canadian woman in Parliament, a milestone celebrated widely within her community. Tamil representation also grew, with candidates gaining ground in suburban ridings like Scarborough.

However, gaps remain. Ukrainian representation, historically strong during the Harper era, has declined, with only two MPs of Ukrainian origin elected in 2025. This decline comes despite high diaspora engagement due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Similarly, Italian and Spanish-speaking MPs remain underrepresented, reflecting a lack of targeted outreach to these communities. Afro-Canadian representation, while growing, is still not proportional to the community’s demographic size, signaling the need for greater inclusion efforts.

Policy Focus: Advocating for Multiculturalism and DEI

Ethnic representation is not merely about numbers—it is also about the policies that these MPs champion. The Liberal Party has consistently emphasized multiculturalism and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in its platform. Policies such as expanding immigration pathways, funding anti-racism initiatives, and strengthening social programs resonate strongly with immigrant communities.

The Conservative Party, while focusing on economic integration and credential recognition for immigrants, has faced challenges in aligning its platform with the cultural priorities of diverse communities. Its hardline stance on immigration caps and contentious foreign policy decisions, such as the approach to China, have limited its appeal to many ethnic groups.

The NDP, traditionally a champion of equity-focused policies, has seen its influence wane, limiting its ability to advocate for DEI effectively. This decline underscores the importance of leadership in maintaining a party’s relevance among diverse communities.

A Global Perspective: How Canada Compares

Canada’s progress in ethnic representation stands out among multicultural democracies. In the United States, ethnic representation in Congress is driven by majority-minority districts, but deep partisan divides often hinder cohesive progress on diversity-focused policies. The United Kingdom has seen notable growth in South Asian MPs, reflecting efforts to integrate diversity into its centralized political framework. Australia, however, lags behind, with limited ethnic representation in Parliament despite its multicultural population.

Canada’s approach—rooted in targeted outreach, proportional representation, and a commitment to multiculturalism—offers valuable lessons for other democracies. However, challenges remain, particularly in ensuring equitable representation for all ethnic groups and addressing systemic barriers to political participation.

Conclusion: Toward a More Inclusive Democracy

The 2025 federal election underscored the growing importance of ethnic representation in Canada’s political landscape. From record-breaking Punjabi representation to the historic election of Filipino and Tamil MPs, the results reflect a nation that is increasingly embracing its diversity. However, persistent gaps in representation for some communities and the decline of traditionally equity-focused parties highlight the need for continued efforts to ensure inclusivity.

As Canada moves forward, the role of ethnic representation will only grow in significance. By amplifying diverse voices and championing policies that reflect the lived realities of all Canadians, the country can continue to build a democracy that truly embodies its multicultural identity.

Canada’s 2025 federal election delivered historic shifts—not only in who will govern, but in who holds political power within the country’s cultural communities. While mainstream coverage centers on Mark Carney’s Liberal minority and Pierre Poilievre’s failure to secure his seat, ethnic media has illuminated a deeper narrative, one that probes issues of representation, belonging, and national cohesion from community-specific vantage points.

Representation and Reaction

One of the most striking outcomes of the election was the record-breaking 22 MPs of Punjabi origin elected to Parliament. This surge was especially visible in Brampton, where all five ridings went to Punjabi candidates—an achievement widely reported across Indian and Chinese-language media.
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In Vancouver, Chinese-language outlet Van People acknowledged the milestone but also reflected unease among some readers. Online commenters expressed concerns about whether these new MPs would focus on shared Canadian values, Indigenous reconciliation, and bilingualism—underscoring tensions around political integration in a multicultural democracy.

In contrast, Punjabi-language media embraced the result as a breakthrough moment. Red FM in Toronto and Hamdard Weekly in Mississauga portrayed the elections as proof of political maturity within the Punjabi-Canadian community. NDTV in New Delhi highlighted that over 6% of Parliament is now composed of Punjabi-origin MPs, calling it a powerful symbol of diaspora influence on the global stage.

A New Political Era for Chinese Canadians

Chinese-Canadian candidates also saw major electoral gains, with nine winning seats across Ontario and British Columbia. Vancouver’s Vansky spotlighted high-profile victories, including Shaun Chen and Jean Yip, as markers of the community’s rising engagement and trust from voters.

The election of Wade Chang in Burnaby Central, where he unseated NDP leader Jagmeet Singh, was particularly significant. Canada News Network in Vancouver highlighted Chang’s platform, which prioritized healthcare reform and a proposal to transform the BCIT area into a Pacific tech hub that would strengthen Canada’s economic and scientific links with Asia.

Still, some cautionary notes emerged. Articles in Van People and Canada News Network echoed frustrations among voters over neglected urban infrastructure and unfulfilled promises from long-standing MPs. The celebratory tone was paired with an insistence on accountability.

The Collapse of the NDP—and Jagmeet Singh

Nowhere was the shift in political fortunes more dramatic than in the collapse of the New Democratic Party and the personal defeat of its leader, Jagmeet Singh. Once viewed as a symbol of progressive, multicultural politics, Singh lost his seat in Burnaby Centre, and the NDP’s national seat count fell from 24 to just 7.

Coverage in Punjab Star (Mississauga) and India’s Dainik Jagran interpreted Singh’s loss as the end of an era, pointing to his past association with Khalistani activism as a liability—particularly during a period of strained relations between India and Canada. ABP News (India) noted that many Indian-origin voters viewed Singh’s stance as oppositional to India’s interests.

At Red FM in Brampton, commentary acknowledged Singh’s impact on Canadian politics but emphasized that the NDP’s failure to carve out a distinct platform—and its dependency on the Liberals—ultimately eroded support. On Toronto’s Radio Humsafar, callers voiced frustration that the party had become politically stagnant and unresponsive to evolving community needs.

Carney’s Win: A Cautious Reset

Ethnic media coverage of Mark Carney’s victory was largely characterized by measured optimism. Carney’s technocratic reputation, combined with his promise of renewed diplomatic outreach, especially toward India, was seen as a potential reset after the contentious Trudeau years.

In New Delhi, Amar Ujala and Dainik Hindustan framed Carney as a chance to repair damaged bilateral relations and highlighted his visible efforts to engage with Indian-Canadian communities—attending temple festivals and signaling openness to strategic cooperation.

In Montreal, the Romanian paper Accent praised Carney’s economic expertise and his emphasis on defending Canadian sovereignty amid escalating U.S. trade pressure. Zycie, a Polish-language weekly in Toronto, echoed cautious approval while warning that voters may quickly tire of continued Liberal dominance if reforms are not delivered.

Meanwhile, Goniec, another Polish outlet in Toronto, was openly skeptical, branding Carney a "media product" and predicting more of the same under his leadership—a sentiment that echoed in corners of Russian and Ukrainian media as well.

Electoral Integrity and Community Trust

One of the most widely discussed—and controversial—election moments in ethnic media came from Chinese-language WeChat groups in Edmonton, where a video surfaced showing election staff in Hamilton placing ballot boxes into a private vehicle. The footage, reported by Edmonton Official WeChat, sparked intense outrage and skepticism.

While Elections Canada downplayed the incident as procedural, online posts asked bluntly: “If this happened in China, would Canada not call it election fraud?” For many immigrant communities, trust in institutions is not automatic—it is earned. When transparency falters, ethnic media becomes the platform through which these concerns are aired, debated, and legitimized.

Beyond the Headlines

As the national media pivots toward post-election strategy and party leadership speculation, ethnic media remains focused on more foundational questions: Who speaks for immigrant communities? Does descriptive representation translate into policy impact? And will Ottawa treat diversity as an asset or a wedge?

From Mandarin-language commentary in Vancouver about political integration, to Punjabi talk shows in Brampton questioning economic priorities, Canada’s ethnic media doesn’t just report the news—it redefines the terms of political engagement.

As Canada heads toward its April 28 federal election, ethnic media outlets across the country are capturing a version of this campaign that looks very different from what mainstream coverage presents. While national headlines focus on polls and party platforms, conversations in Punjabi, Chinese, Hindi, Portuguese, and other languages reveal a deeper story—one shaped by nationalism, economic anxiety, leadership shifts, and questions of identity.

Nowhere is this more evident than in the way Donald Trump’s shadow looms over Canada’s political landscape. Across Bengali, Hindi, Spanish, and Punjabi outlets, Trump’s tariffs, trade wars, and provocative rhetoric—such as his threat to "make Canada the 51st U.S. state"—have reframed this election as more than a domestic contest. This external pressure has fueled a wave of nationalism, with hosts on Punjabi WTOR Nagara Radio in Mississauga attributing record-breaking advance poll turnout in Brampton to “Trump’s tariffs, his perceived interest in making Canada the 51st U.S. state, and his focus on Canadian resources.” Similarly, a Chinese-Canadian family told Ming Pao Toronto, “Trump’s tariffs definitely influence our voting decisions,” underscoring how cross-border tensions are resonating at the community level.

Ethnic media narratives often contrast newly appointed Prime Minister Mark Carney’s calm, technocratic approach with Pierre Poilievre’s more aggressive style. During the English-language debate, a host on Oakville’s CJMR 1320 AM Rangla Punjab observed that “Carney remained calm and responded intelligently”—a performance that won the radio host’s praise. Yet, skepticism about political transparency persists. Commentators on Vancouver’s Connect FM 91.5 Punjabi program pointed out that “Conservative candidates are avoiding traditional media to avoid questions and are using social media to reach out to voters,” raising concerns about accountability in campaign strategies.

Economic concerns dominate discussions, with ethnic media tying global pressures directly to household realities. Romanian outlet Accent Montreal emphasized that “tariffs and Washington’s hostility towards Canada are dominating this election campaign,” linking foreign policy to anxieties over inflation, housing affordability, and job security. Meanwhile, Punjabi outlets amplified warnings from Liberal candidate Ahmed Hussen, who stressed on PTC North America TV that cutting social programs like childcare and dental care would “make life more expensive” for ordinary Canadians.

China-Canada relations add another layer of complexity, particularly within Chinese-language media. Coverage frequently highlights dissatisfaction with both major parties—criticizing the Liberals for governance missteps and the Conservatives for their hardline stance on China. As one commentator on the Chinese-language Van People website in Vancouver put it, “We are tired of being caught between geopolitical games. Every election, Chinese Canadians are treated as suspects or pawns, not citizens with real concerns.” This frustration extends beyond foreign policy. 

Vancouver’s Canada News Network (Chinese) noted that the focus on China “often becomes a political tool, overshadowing critical domestic concerns like inflation, public safety, and the cost of living—issues that matter most to Chinese-Canadian voters.”

Immigration remains a flashpoint where policy meets personal impact. A Hindi-language article in Dainik Hindustan from India bluntly stated, “Now it is not easy to go to Canada—both candidates for the post of PM are unanimous on stopping immigrants from coming.” Punjabi programs in Canada echoed fears about how immigration caps intersect with strained housing and healthcare systems, with OMNI News TV Punjabi noting that while “immigrants matter” in key ridings, many are left questioning whether services can keep pace with population growth.

Professor Andrea Lawlor, speaking to OMNI TV Focus Portuguese, highlighted how outreach to newcomers has become central to party strategies: “Politicians realize that new Canadians vote, they are interested, and they are looking for opportunities to become more immersed in the system. It’s a win-win for politicians to gain voters and for newcomers to feel enfranchised and part of Canadian political culture.” Yet, Lawlor also warned of declining trust in institutions and the American-style rhetoric shaping this election, noting that voters are looking for leaders who can “be the adult in the room” amid U.S.-Canada tensions.

Questions of representation and identity politics are also front and center. Leaders’ visits to temples and gurdwaras, alongside the rise of South Asian and Asian candidates, are closely tracked. Hindi-language outlet Amar Ujala from India reported that “65 candidates of Punjabi origin are trying their luck in the field of politics,” while Mississauga’s Punjab Star observed that this surge “signifies a broader movement towards inclusivity”—but also emphasized the need for candidates to “elevate the voices of their communities in a meaningful way,” beyond symbolic representation.

Frustration with the political process is palpable across communities. On Toronto’s Sargi Vela Radio (Punjabi), a caller challenged perceived media bias, asking, “What have the Liberals done wrong to you?” after hearing multiple hosts advise against voting Liberal. Reports of election sign vandalism and concerns over paid endorsements further stoked debates about fairness and democratic integrity.

Ultimately, ethnic media reveals an election shaped not just by party platforms but by deeper undercurrents of economic insecurity, national identity, and geopolitical anxiety. Whether it’s a Chinese-language outlet warning of being “caught between superpowers,” a Punjabi host urging voters to “educate themselves before voting,” or a Bengali commentary observing that “Trump’s policies are a crucial element shaping the upcoming election dynamics,” these voices highlight the lived realities behind policy debates.
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As Canadians prepare to cast their ballots, ethnic media offers a vital lens into how communities are experiencing this moment—not as a simple choice between red and blue, but as a negotiation of identity, security, and belonging in an increasingly uncertain world.

In the quiet conversations happening in community centers, local radio stations, and ethnic newspapers across Canada, the federal election takes on dimensions rarely captured in mainstream coverage. As Canadians prepare to cast their ballots on April 28, MIREMS' multilingual media monitoring reveals the rich tapestry of perspectives flourishing within Canada's diverse cultural communities.

Trading Winds from the South
Conversations about Canada-US relations echo through media of many languages, each community processing these concerns through their unique cultural lens. A Vietnamese-language analysis on Culture Channel examines how shifting trade patterns might reshape Canada's economic landscape, noting that goods once bound for American shores may now arrive in Canadian markets, creating both opportunities and challenges for local industries.
This theme finds resonance in Hindi-language media, where discussions center on diplomatic approaches to managing cross-border relations. Meanwhile, callers to Punjabi-language radio programs thoughtfully explore which leadership qualities might best serve Canada's interests in this complex international environment.

A Mosaic of Political Engagement
Within Canada's cultural mosaic, political affiliations reflect the diversity of the country itself. Chinese-language outlet Van People offers a window into a spirited NDP rally in British Columbia, where community members shared their political journeys and the values guiding their electoral choices.
Across the country, Punjabi-language radio conversations reveal thoughtful deliberations about economic policy and leadership vision. Ukrainian-language publications highlight policy proposals concerning international affairs, particularly regarding Ukraine, showing how global concerns shape local voting considerations.

The Rhythm of Democracy
"The immigrant vote mirrors many of the same concerns as the broader Canadian electorate," observed University of British Columbia Professor Irene Bloemraad in an OMNI News Punjabi Edition report. "We all worry about our communities. We all have similar concerns about jobs and housing."
This sentiment finds nuance in the words of Olga Stachova, CEO of immigrant association MOSAIC, who gently reminds us that "there is no one immigrant vote. We are diverse communities." This diversity of thought weaves through conversations in many languages, with each community bringing its unique perspective to the electoral tapestry.
As Professor Bloemraad notes, these voices carry particular significance: "Immigrant voters have greater weight in Canada than in the US because a higher percentage of immigrants become citizens, and more immigrants care about voting because they think their vote matters."

New Voices in Parliament
The journey of representation unfolds through stories like that of Filipino-Canadian MP Rechie Valdez, who shared with OMNI Filipino her experience of bringing new perspectives to Parliament. Her narrative of navigating traditional institutions while carrying forward her cultural heritage illuminates the evolving nature of Canadian democracy.
This theme of representation resonates in conversations about leadership across multiple communities, highlighting the ongoing dialogue about what it means to see oneself reflected in Canada's political landscape.

Weaving the Whole Cloth
The true portrait of Canadian democracy emerges not from any single narrative, but from the intricate interweaving of voices across languages and cultures. While English and French media provide one perspective on the election, these multilingual conversations reveal the full dimensionality of Canadian civic life.
As one caller to a Punjabi-language radio program observed, the election ultimately isn't about any single issue or leader, but about "what kind of Canada we want to build together." This sentiment, expressed in different words across different languages, perhaps best captures the essence of what binds these diverse perspectives together.
In living rooms and community spaces across the country, Canadians of all backgrounds engage in the democratic process through their unique cultural lenses, each adding a vital thread to the nation's political fabric. The conversations happening in languages beyond English and French aren't separate from the national dialogue—they are essential components of it, offering insights that enrich our understanding of Canadian democracy in action.
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MIREMS continues to monitor these vital conversations, providing a bridge between communities and helping organizations understand the full spectrum of voices shaping Canada's political landscape.

As Canada's federal election unfolds against a backdrop of global uncertainty, communities across the linguistic spectrum are engaging in thoughtful conversations about their place in Canada's future. Through the lens of ethnic media in multiple languages, MIREMS offers a glimpse into these rich dialogues—conversations that often remain invisible to mainstream coverage but reflect the depth and diversity of Canadian democratic participation.

A Tapestry of Concerns
Walk into a polling station in Scarborough, Vancouver, or Montreal during advance voting, and you'll encounter a mosaic of voters, each bringing their unique perspectives to this democratic exercise. A South Asian couple, patiently waiting in line at a Scarborough polling station, shared with Ming Pao reporters their reflections on Canada's place in a changing world. Nearby, a Chinese-Canadian family discussed economic considerations that would influence their ballot choice.

In Vancouver's Chinese Cultural Centre, Mrs. Guo expressed surprise at the Easter weekend turnout, while in Burnaby, a voter named Martin appreciated the organization of advance polls despite unexpected crowds. These small moments, captured in Van People's Chinese-language coverage, paint a picture of civic engagement that transcends linguistic barriers.

International Relations: A Common Thread
Across various language communities, Canada's international relationships have emerged as a central consideration. Romanian-language media outlet Accent Montreal observes how attention has shifted toward external relationships and trade partnerships, reflecting widespread interest in how Canada positions itself on the global stage.
This theme resonates in conversations happening in community centers, local radio programs, and family gatherings. Professor Andrea Lawlor, speaking with Portuguese-language media, noted this shift in focus and the evolving nature of political discourse in Canada.

Chinese-language media has offered nuanced historical perspective on Canada-China relations over two decades. Vansky presented readers with a thoughtful examination of how diplomatic approaches have evolved across different administrations, noting how complex international relationships interact with domestic community experiences.

Local Concerns in Global Context
While international affairs feature prominently, community media hasn't lost sight of local concerns. In Punjabi-language programming on CJMR 1320 AM, discussions addressed housing affordability, access to healthcare, and the interconnection between immigration policies and community development.

French-language L'Express highlighted the French-Canadian Cultural Federation's advocacy for arts funding in minority Francophone communities, with Federation President Nancy Juneau emphasizing that culture represents "a main course" rather than a dessert for linguistic minority communities.

In Portuguese-focused ridings like Davenport and Mississauga-Lakeshore, OMNI Focus has documented candidates discussing housing affordability, climate initiatives, and relationships between different levels of government—demonstrating how national policy discussions find unique expressions in local contexts.

Leadership Through Different Cultural Lenses
Each cultural community brings distinct perspectives to their assessment of party leaders. Van People's Chinese-language analysis offered thoughtful character sketches of each leader's debate performance, highlighting communication styles and strategic approaches. Nash Montreal provided Russian-language readers with reflections on how the debates might influence voter decisions in the campaign's final days.

Hindi-language NDTV took a different approach, explaining distinctive features of Canadian democracy to readers, including voting rights for incarcerated individuals and the structure of Parliamentary democracy—offering valuable civic education to community members.

Representation Evolves
Throughout this election, Punjab Star and other publications have noted the growing representation of diverse candidates. The participation of over 70 candidates of Asian descent, including many from South Asian backgrounds, reflects an evolution in Canadian political representation. The increasing presence of women candidates from diverse backgrounds, including 13 Punjabi women seeking office, suggests continuing transformation in who shapes Canada's political future.

In Brampton, community events have brought together established political figures and community leaders, as documented by Punjab Star, showcasing the integration of cultural communities into Canada's political landscape.

Listening Across Languages
As election day approaches, these multilingual conversations continue to evolve, offering perspectives that enrich our understanding of Canadian democracy. By listening across languages, we gain insight into the hopes, concerns, and aspirations that animate voters from diverse backgrounds.

The tapestry of voices captured in ethnic media reminds us that Canadian democracy speaks in many languages, but converges around shared questions: How do we build sustainable prosperity? How do we navigate complex international relationships? How do we create communities where everyone belongs?
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Though expressed in different languages and informed by diverse cultural contexts, these questions reflect a common engagement with Canada's democratic process—a process that continues to evolve through the participation of all who call this country home.


This narrative draws from MIREMS' multilingual media monitoring of community perspectives on the 2025 Canadian federal election. By listening to conversations happening in over 30 languages, MIREMS provides a window into how diverse communities engage with and contribute to Canadian democratic dialogue.

While Carney and Poilievre exchange scripted jabs on the debate stage and mainstream commentators dissect tariff threats, a powerful political undercurrent is emerging in Canada’s ethnic communities—one that could upend polling projections and determine which party forms government on April 28.
MIREMS’ multilingual media monitoring reveals a parallel campaign unfolding outside the English and French-speaking mainstream. In this space, immigration—not tariffs—dominates discussion. These voices, often marginalized in national discourse, may ultimately deliver the final verdict.


THE IMMIGRATION BETRAYAL: PUNJABI MEDIA REFLECTS DISILLUSIONMENT
The Liberal Party’s pivot from its once-open immigration stance has fractured long-standing loyalties in Punjabi-language media—a space that once reliably leaned red. The tone is now one of disappointment and frustration.
“Many immigrants are leaving Canada to go to other countries or return home,” reported Arsh Chawla on CJMR 1320 AM’s Rangla Punjab, capturing widespread concern about a loss of talent in sectors like healthcare, where staffing shortages are already critical. The economic ripple effects are visible, including falling rental demand in student neighborhoods as international students disappear.
More politically damaging is the silence from both major parties on the future of those same students. “Neither the Liberals nor the Conservatives are talking about whether they have any plans to provide a pathway to permanent residency for these students,” noted one caller to Radio Humsafar.
This neglect could prove costly in the 905 region of Ontario, where dense immigrant populations often decide tight races. For now, both major parties appear more concerned with not alienating anti-immigration voters than with retaining traditional immigrant support.


TRUMP’S “51ST STATE” TALK: NOT LOST IN TRANSLATION, BUT REFRAMED
While much of English-speaking Canada recoiled at Donald Trump’s “51st state” comments, Hindi-language outlet Amar Ujala provided a radically different interpretation. The publication emphasized Press Secretary Leavitt’s framing of annexation as an economic opportunity, quoting Trump as saying, “the people of Canada will benefit greatly by becoming the 51st state.”
This reframing reveals a strategic blind spot in Canadian politics—the assumption that all communities respond to nationalist rhetoric in the same way. For audiences with strong transnational ties, economic pragmatism can outweigh traditional notions of sovereignty.


“LIKE ONE OF US”: WHY LIBERAL BRAND LOYALTY ENDURES
Despite policy backtracking and Carney’s technocratic image, the Liberal Party continues to benefit from cultural affinity within some immigrant communities. “The Liberals seem familiar—like one of us,” a 60-year resident said on CHLO AM 530’s Guntas Radio, capturing a recurring theme: emotional identification can outweigh policy disappointment.
In contrast, Conservative messaging often focuses on economic management, with limited cultural engagement. While Poilievre’s cost-of-living platform resonates in part, it’s met with concern among others. “The Conservatives' policies are said to make cuts to many things, including jobs and benefits,” one caller warned.
The core battleground here is not purely policy—it’s cultural trust. This intangible factor continues to elude traditional polling methodologies.


QUEBEC NATIONALISM THROUGH A RUSSIAN LENS
Russian-language outlet Nash Montreal provided a detailed analysis of how both Carney and Poilievre invoked the nationalist slogan maîtres chez nous (“masters in our own home”) during their televised appearances on Tout le monde en parle.
The coverage highlighted how both leaders co-opted Quebec's sovereignty rhetoric to stake claims to economic nationalism, while accusing one another of hollow promises. “The Prime Minister responded with a smile, noting that Poilievre seemed to hear him—‘and that’s good!’” Nash Montreal reported, capturing the theatrical nature of their rivalry.
This kind of bilingual performance politics is carefully parsed in ethnic media—and increasingly influential.


CAPITAL PUNISHMENT: AN UNEXPECTED ECHO
In a surprising turn, the issue of capital punishment surfaced in Punjabi-language political discussions. A caller to Radio Humsafar’s Khabarsar suggested, “Instead of spending resources on keeping such criminals alive in prison, Canada should consider reintroducing capital punishment,” in response to Poilievre’s tough-on-crime stance.
No major party has broached the subject, yet its emergence in ethnic discourse illustrates how communities may interpret messages through unexpected cultural or legal frameworks. These unintended consequences underscore the risks of one-size-fits-all campaign messaging.


“POLLS ARE PROPAGANDA”: DISTRUST IN THE SYSTEM
Perhaps the most politically consequential insight is the deep skepticism toward polling itself. Across multiple language platforms, callers voiced concerns about manipulation (“The Liberals are rigging the opinion polls”) and questioned the validity of surveys altogether.
This level of distrust, if widespread, undermines one of the core tools political campaigns use to navigate elections. If large segments of the electorate no longer believe in polling, the stage is set for outcomes that defy conventional forecasting—akin to Brexit or Trump’s 2016 win.


THE VERDICT: A NEW ELECTORAL KINGMAKER EMERGES
As national campaigns focus on televised debates and English-language coverage, they risk missing the real story: the ethnic vote is more influential—and more complex—than ever.
MIREMS’ media monitoring shows that immigration policy, cultural familiarity, and economic pragmatism drive engagement in multicultural communities. These factors rarely surface in mainstream coverage, yet they dominate discussion in key battleground ridings.
The question isn’t whether ethnic communities will shape the outcome of the 2025 election—it’s whether political leaders will realize their power in time.


MIREMS stands at the intersection of language and politics, monitoring over 1,000 media outlets in 30+ languages across Canada. Our multilingual insights reveal what polls miss and focus groups can’t reach—the authentic voices shaping the nation’s political future.

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As Canada’s federal election campaign reaches its midpoint, much of the mainstream political discourse remains focused on U.S. tariffs, economic sovereignty, and leadership styles. However, multilingual and ethnic media across the country are drawing attention to a broader range of issues that reflect the concerns of Canada’s diverse communities.
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Recent monitoring by MIREMS (Multilingual International Research and Ethnic Media Services) reveals that while some themes overlap with national coverage, others highlight different priorities rooted in local and cultural contexts.

U.S. Trade Tensions: A Shared Concern Framed Differently
Coverage of Canada-U.S. trade relations appears prominently in many ethnic outlets, though each frames the issue through the lens of its community.
Toronto’s Spanish-language Correo Canadiense supported Canada’s response to U.S. tariffs, describing countermeasures as necessary and encouraging readers to support Hispanic-owned businesses as both an economic and cultural contribution.
In Malaysia, The Edge published an opinion piece praising Canada’s measured approach to the trade dispute, presenting it as an example for smaller countries navigating global trade challenges.
Closer to home, OMNI News Italian Edition reported from York South–Weston–Etobicoke, where Liberal candidate Ahmed Hussen named economic pressure from the U.S. as a top issue. A local business owner described the current economic uncertainty as one of the most difficult periods he has experienced in Canada.

Local Issues Remain Central: Housing, Safety, and Economic Stability
Beyond foreign policy, ethnic media reports show strong attention to local concerns—particularly housing affordability, community safety, and cost of living.
In Calgary Centre, OMNI News Filipino Edition covered housing as a key issue. Green Party candidate Jayden Baldonado noted the financial challenges many are facing, while NDP candidate Beau Shaw proposed converting vacant downtown buildings into affordable housing.
Punjabi-language outlet PTC North America focused on community safety following Prime Minister Mark Carney’s campaign stop in Brampton. His announcement of plans to expand RCMP staffing and increase border enforcement was linked to concerns about crime and illicit drug flow—issues raised frequently by residents, according to local Liberal candidate Sonia Sidhu.

Energy Transition: A Broader View of Calgary’s Economy
Energy policy, especially in Calgary, is also receiving attention. In the Filipino-language broadcast, Liberal candidate Lindsay Luhnau emphasized Calgary’s broader capabilities in energy innovation, suggesting the city’s future includes not only oil and gas but also clean energy technologies.
This reflects an evolving conversation in some communities about balancing traditional industries with environmental and economic sustainability.

The Role of Representation
Ethnic media also focused on the importance of candidate representation. In Filipino media, Jayden Baldonado’s candidacy for the Green Party received attention despite his lesser-known profile. His participation in the race was seen as meaningful for representation, particularly among younger Filipino-Canadians.
These stories suggest that for many communities, the presence of candidates with shared cultural backgrounds plays an important role in fostering engagement with the political process.

Summary of Key Themes from Ethnic Media
MIREMS’ multilingual media review identifies several recurring themes:

• Connections between global and local issues: International developments are often discussed in relation to community-level impacts.
• Community-specific framing of universal issues: Topics such as housing and safety are broadly relevant, but often approached through culturally specific narratives.
• Importance of representation: The visibility of culturally aligned candidates continues to matter to voters across many communities.
• Gaps in engagement: Some reports noted that candidates declined to speak with ethnic media, indicating opportunities for improved outreach.

As the election campaign continues, these perspectives serve as a reminder that Canada’s political dialogue includes many languages and viewpoints. Understanding these different narratives is essential to capturing the full range of voter concerns.

MIREMS monitors and analyzes over 1,000 media sources in more than 30 languages across Canada, offering insight into the perspectives of culturally and linguistically diverse communities.