Of the world's democratic nations, Canada distinguishes itself for a high level of governance. Between three and four out of every ten Canadians work for the government or deliver a service that government is responsible for providing.

Many Canadians act as political representatives of other Canadians at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels. As well, a high percentage of Canadians work as civil servants for government ministries, agencies, or Crown Corporations.

Many other Canadians work for institutions that government licenses and controls. For example, most teachers, doctors, nurses, police, park wardens, professors, and letter carriers, as well as the operators, managers, and repairmen of utilities are employees of governments or a government-operated service.