Shifting Mindsets

An Advocacy Coalition Framework Analysis of Canadian Federal Housing Policy

Abstract

Thousands of people across Canada are struggling to find affordable and adequate housing. The following study is an analysis of housing policy in Canada, in order to shed light on its past shortcomings. After applying the advocacy coalition framework, I will demonstrate how the federal government has historically divided into two main coalitions when it comes to addressing inadequate housing in Canada; the market housing coalition and the social housing coalition. By implementing a process tracing methodological approach, I will examine the effects of past housing policy and how it has led to present-day legislation. I will conclude that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has promised housing advancements and through incremental changes, he has established, for the first time ever in Canada, the right to housing.