The broadening debates regarding the formative role of basic beliefs, worldviews, ethical values or other core commitments that shape our personal, economic and political lives are becoming increasingly relevant during the current (pre-)election campaign.

Our federal leaders and local candidates owe it to their parties, constituents and all Canadians to articulate and communicate candidly their views and goals, their particular ideologies, bottom lines and ultimate interests. They should clarify just how these political basics relate to Canada’s diverse challenges—environmental and socio-economic needs; as well as to our international responsibilities—aid, development, peace and justice strategies.

They should explain how their different perspectives and proposals promote the common good, serving the well-being of all people without discrimination.

Would their position help bring about inclusive public justice for all and greater respect for the fundamental freedoms and human rights of all communities that constitute the Canadian mosaic?

All our politicians and parties should spell out, in their respective campaign platforms, which fundamental principles, political priorities, legislative proposals and specific policies define their agendas for Parliamentary action.

Real choices and commitments, accompanied by concrete promises and creative solutions, would stimulate intelligent analyses and positive discussions. They would contribute to a meaningful participatory democracy and responsible political involvement, aimed at building a caring and sharing society in a needy world.

Comprehensive platforms should include precise statements outlining both the lasting human benefits and the real financial costs. Thorough commentaries prepared by respectable professionals (such as Auditor General Sheila Fraser) should also state anticipated fiscal deficits or surpluses.

All concerned are entitled to reliable information, so that voters can make informative decisions before, on and after election day, holding MPs accountable.

Canada should probably establish an independent organization (such as the Congressional Budget Office in the U.S.) to evaluate the federal budget, the economy and the environmental and social state of our country. It could then issue periodic statements on the size of the federal surplus or deficit, along with realistic projections on how they will grow over time.

An authoritative, non-partisan institution issuing understandable reports would help foster a healthy political environment, thus preventing vague election rhetoric, empty slogans and thoughtless promises that undermine authentic debate and useful action.

Clearly stated, politically relevant core values and goals, accompanied by comprehensive fiscal and socio-economic consequences (both pro and con), are essential to a renewed, responsible politics of justice, honesty and integrity.

Which media and parties will be in the vanguard advocating distinct values-based platforms and conscientious politics, supported by comprehensive budgets and forecasts that will build a strong and free Canada?

Will the prime minister and the opposition leaders take proactive initiatives now? Conviction politicians—here is your opportunity!

Gerald Vandezande, author of Justice, Not Just Us: Faith Perspectives and National Priorities, served 35 years as executive director and national public affairs director for Citizens for Public Justice, an organization he helped found. In 2001 he was awarded the Order of Canada as “a powerful and respected voice for social justice.”