Introduction

In a recent insight into the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), retired Major Barbara Krasij-Maisonneuve expressed her concerns regarding the current recruitment and culture within the military. With a remarkable career that began in the 1980s, Barbara's journey has given her a unique perspective on the evolution of military recruitment—lessons that are crucial during a time when Canada faces a significant personnel shortage.

Personal Recruitment Story

During a conversation, she recalled her own recruitment story. After high school, at just 18, she joined the Military Police out of concern for her parents' financial struggles. As she reminisced about her early experiences in a military climate filled with challenges, she noted that despite evolving gender dynamics, the military still has miles to go in fully achieving a meritocratic environment.

Criticism of Affirmative Action

Barbara's frustration stems from the CAF's focus on affirmative action quotas aimed at increasing female representation, which currently sits at about 17%. She pointed out that while the initiative to raise women's participation from 15% to a target of 25% by 2026, many women in the military feel it overlooks true merit and capability. 'For 20-30 years, we didn’t get the job because we were women, and now we’re getting it just because we’re women. This is not progress,' she asserted, highlighting a sentiment many share regarding the importance of competence over demographic representation.

Negative Military Perception

The retired major also criticized the negative portrayal of the military in media and by government representatives, which can deter potential recruits. 'If I knew nothing about Canada’s military and I had an 18-year-old daughter, I’d say, ‘Stay away; they’re all sexual predators, it’s racist, it’s white supremacist,’' Barbara remarked, illustrating the damaging effects of a generalized negative narrative.

Government Misalignment

She expressed concern over what she sees as a misalignment between the current government's approach and the needs of the military: 'This government is no friend to the military,' she lamented. Barbara believes that the emphasis on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives has overshadowed the foundational values of discipline and merit which should dictate military culture. With the appointment of Gen. Jennie Carignan as Canada’s first female Chief of Defence Staff, Barbara fears more progress will be made on social issues rather than the operational capability of the military.

Call for a Warrior Culture

Barbara called for a return to a 'warrior culture' that emphasizes strength, competence, and a commitment to national service—qualities she argues are essential for a successful military. She believes that removing bureaucratic obstacles linked to DEI initiatives and focusing on merit-based recruitment will attract the best candidates, regardless of gender, race, or background.

Recruitment Challenges and Solutions

As recruitment woes continue, with the military facing a shortfall of 16,500 personnel, Barbara urges decisive action to revitalize the recruiting process and create an atmosphere where service is celebrated. 'Wearing that flag on your sleeve is the most wonderful thing you can do, particularly in a world that feels increasingly perilous,' she said, emphasizing the importance of a strong and capable military.

Conclusion

Her message is clear: to protect Canada and foster a new generation of warriors, the CAF must pivot back to a foundation built on merit, empowerment, and a culture of excellence. Barbara Krasij-Maisonneuve’s passionate call to action serves as a reminder of the need for both tradition and evolution within Canada's defense forces.