General Information
What are International Expositions?
International expositions are defined by the Bureau of International Expositions / Bureau international des expositions (BIE) as a forum for the exchange of information which fosters better understanding amongst people. Each nation is invited to share its ideas and to demonstrate the progress it has achieved on a theme determined by the exposition organizer.
The BIE, a Paris-based organization of 157 member nations, regulates the frequency and quality of International expositions.
The BIE categorizes international expositions into two main categories:
Universal expos (registered) and Specialized expos (recognized)
| Category | Universal (registered) | Specialized (recognized) |
|---|---|---|
| Frequency | Once every 5 years, i.e., 2010, 2015 | Between 2 universal expos |
| Duration | 6 months maximum | Up to 3 months |
| Site | Unlimited size | Up to 25 hectares |
| Pavilion | Can be built and designed by participants | Modules provided by host organization |
| Theme | Must reflect a universal concern | Must be specialized |
Canada's participation in International expositions is coordinated by the International Expositions Program of the Department of Canadian Heritage.
Federal Commitment to Participation in International Expositions
The Government of Canada is clearly committed to advancing Canada's place in the world. Canada must, therefore, pursue effective strategies to promote its interests and project its values globally. International expositions are unique forums where Canadians share the stage with the world's best and showcase to the world what the Canadian model of society can achieve. The federal government's commitment to financially support and participate in international expositions will lead to significant benefits and legacies for Canadians.
By providing a stable funding framework for future expositions, the Government continues to ensure a more strategic and effective approach to planning its participation in these events. Longer term planning will ensure broader-based participation and consultations and more solid partnerships with Canadian citizens, other levels of government and the private sector to help develop Canada's presence.
Organizing Canada's Participation
Canada participates in international expositions to showcase its cultural achievements, linguistic duality, diversity and values, as well as its technological and scientific expertise in a broad range of areas. Participation is coordinated by the International Expositions Program of the Department of Canadian Heritage.
Mandate
The role of the International Expositions Program is threefold:
- to represent Canada as a member nation at Bureau of International Expositions / Bureau international des expositions (BIE)
- to plan, implement and manage Canada's participation in expositions held abroad
- to fulfill the requirements of the BIE convention when expositions are held in Canada
History
Canada has a long tradition of participation in international expositions, having taken part since their inception in 1851.
Canada has achieved a reputation of excellence for its participation at international expositions. Canada has also hosted two successful international expositions: Expo '67 in Montreal and Expo '86 in Vancouver.
Canada most recently took part in Expo 2010 in Shanghai, China.
Nature of Canada's Participation
Canada's participation in international expositions consists of:
- Canada Pavilion:
- The pavilion features a fully-integrated thematic experience with leading edge technology.
- Complementary Programs:
- Equally important are the cultural, trade and public affairs programs undertaken in the host country. Canadian Heritage works closely with other government departments and key stakeholders to develop these programs.