OTTAWA — Forty-one per cent of Canadians say Prime Minister Mark Carney’s initiative to recognize the State of Palestine is a good idea, according to a Leger poll conducted for Postmedia. Twenty-eight per cent say it is a bad idea, and 31 per cent are unsure.
Support is concentrated among younger Canadians. Nearly half of respondents aged 18 to 34 described recognition as a good idea, compared with lower levels among older age groups.
Political affiliation strongly predicts views. Six in ten Liberal voters and 62 per cent of NDP voters said recognition was a good idea. Just 21 per cent of Conservative voters agreed. A majority of Conservative voters described the move as a bad idea.
The survey was conducted from August 1 to August 4, 2025. It polled a representative online sample of 1,617 Canadian adults. Leger reports results were weighted by age, gender, mother tongue, region, education, and presence of children in the household.
Carney announced the government’s plan to recognize a Palestinian state in late July, tying recognition to conditions including Palestinian elections and demilitarization. The prime minister framed the move as consistent with Canada’s long-standing support for a two-state solution.
Reaction among commentators and policy advocates has been mixed. Media analysis noted the split in public opinion and flagged potential diplomatic and trade implications as Ottawa implements recognition.
For pro-Israel and Jewish audiences, the poll underscores a shifting Canadian landscape. While a substantial plurality supports recognition, significant opposition remains, concentrated among Conservative voters and older demographics. Observers say the results are likely to shape political debate as the government proceeds with its timeline.
This article is based on verified information from Leger, Postmedia, the Prime Minister’s office, 338Canada, and other reputable news outlets.