The Legacy of Brian Mulroney, Canada’s Longest Serving Prime Minister
Canada mourns the loss of one of its most prominent leaders. Brian Mulroney, who served as Prime Minister from 1984 to 1993, passed away on February 29, 2024 at the age of 84. As PM for over 9 years, Mulroney had the longest uninterrupted tenure in office in Canadian history. He left behind a remarkable political legacy that shaped Canada’s role in the world.
Under Mulroney’s leadership, Canada’s economy flourished and international relations were strengthened. He played a pivotal role in negotiating economic agreements like the Canada-US Free Trade Agreement in 1988, which laid the foundation for NAFTA. Brian Mulroney was a champion of environmental causes as well, helping secure an air quality agreement with the US to reduce acid rain. At home, he created several new national parks and championed environmental protection laws.
A Diplomat on the Global Stage
On the world stage, Brian Mulroney was a respected diplomat who represented Canadian interests skillfully. He stood up against apartheid in South Africa and worked to end racial segregation. As chair of the UN committee on apartheid, Mulroney pushed for sanctions and helped isolate the apartheid regime internationally. His efforts strengthened Canada’s image as a compassionate global player.
Brian Mulroney colleagues and successors remember him fondly. Current PM Justin Trudeau said he “never stopped working for Canadians” and was passionate about building a prosperous nation. Brian Mulroney’s legacy will live on through the foundations he laid for Canada’s economic and environmental policies. He was indeed one of Canada’s most accomplished prime ministers.
