Justin Trudeau promotes ‘soft power’ at Davos with Katy Perry in attendance
Justin Trudeau, accompanied by Katy Perry, spoke at Davos about soft power and democratic backsliding, while remaining coy about formal post-office plans.
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By Torontoer Staff
Justin Trudeau, prime minister from 2015 to 2024, made a formal appearance at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Tuesday, delivering a speech on the value of soft power while accompanied by his partner, pop star Katy Perry. The address drew a crowd of a few hundred attendees, a contrast with other sessions held behind closed doors.
Trudeau used the platform to warn about democratic backsliding and the erosion of a rules-based international order, and to argue that nations must build new institutions to increase resilience as some states increasingly rely on military and economic coercion.
Soft power as a policy response
Trudeau framed Canada’s international role around trust and practical assistance rather than extractive or imperial aims. He invoked recent global crises, including the pandemic and conflicts in Europe, to illustrate how influence can be exercised through support, solidarity and the defence of international law.
That era is over,
Justin Trudeau
He said the previous rules-based order that protected rights and freer trade is being replaced, and that leaders must design new cooperative institutions to push back on states using hard power for narrow advantage.
Trudeau pointed to Canada’s contributions to Ukraine as an example of soft power in action, praising Ukrainian resilience and characterizing Western aid and solidarity as efforts that help, rather than exploit, conflict zones.
That was soft power in action,
Justin Trudeau
Veiled remarks on international tensions
Trudeau avoided naming specific world leaders in the speech, but took a firmer tone during a Q and A session, rejecting talk of territorial acquisitions and calling such comments a moment for NATO and allies to reflect on the principles they will defend.
Talk of acquiring Greenland is a really important moment for NATO and for countries around the world to reflect on what principles they will defend and push back on and what we’re prepared to negotiate,
Justin Trudeau
He reiterated that respect for international law and for allies will be central to responding to these challenges.
Katy Perry’s presence and public profile
Katy Perry attended the event alongside Trudeau, and her presence drew additional attention from attendees and the press. She left the venue as Trudeau spoke, and photographers captured several moments as the couple navigated the forum.
The appearance was low on spectacle and focused on Trudeau’s remarks rather than a joint public platform. Perry did not speak at the session.
What this means for Trudeau’s post-political life
Speaking briefly to Canadian reporters before the address, Trudeau said he is enjoying post-political life, spending time with his children and taking speaking engagements. He said he has not accepted any formal employment and is exploring work related to storytelling and technology.
- Trudeau is on the speaking circuit but has not taken a formal job.
- He positions soft power and alliances as central to Canada’s foreign policy approach.
- Katy Perry’s attendance increased media interest, but she did not participate publicly in the session.
Davos in context
The World Economic Forum brings together political and business leaders to discuss global economic and security issues. Trudeau’s appearance took place as other sessions were restricted and closed to the media, highlighting a mix of public and private diplomacy at the forum.
His comments emphasize a diplomatic approach that relies on alliances, legal norms and assistance, rather than coercion, at a moment when those norms face strain.
Concluding his brief remarks to reporters, Trudeau reiterated his interest in narratives and technology and said he is enjoying family life while weighing future opportunities.
Justin TrudeauKaty PerryDavosWorld Economic Forumsoft powerCanada
