Historian Andrew Roberts has proposed the formation of a 'CANZUK' union, comprising Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. He envisions it as a free trade zone with free movement of people, a mutual defence organisation, and combined military capabilities, which could become the world's fourth-largest economy with a combined GDP of over £4.6 trillion.
The concept has gained traction amid the united front these nations have shown against China's aggressive expansionism and their joint decision to exclude Huawei from 5G networks. Roberts argues that such a union would provide a seat on the UN Security Council, given the UK's current membership.
Roberts believes the union is necessary to counter China's global ambitions, stating, 'There is no reason why the American taxpayer should pick up the bill of being the world’s policeman forever, and an intimate alliance with CANZUK would provide welcome relief.' He added that a strong CANZUK would serve as a 'force-multiplier' for the Anglosphere in an uncertain world.
The idea, which traces its roots to early 20th-century British Empire federation proposals, has been revived as the UK seeks new trade deals post-Brexit. Roberts concluded, 'As the world order undergoes its most profound transition since the end of the Cold War, it is an idea whose moment has arrived.'
