Jagmeet Singh is a Canadian lawyer, human rights advocate, and politician best known for serving as the leader of Canada’s New Democratic Party (NDP) from 2017 to 2025. Throughout his political career, he became one of the country’s most recognizable progressive leaders and the first person from a visible minority to permanently lead a major federal political party in Canada.
Born in 1979 in Scarborough, Ontario, Singh studied biology before earning a law degree and beginning his career as a criminal defence lawyer. Before entering federal politics, he served as a Member of Provincial Parliament in Ontario, where he advocated for affordable housing, workers’ rights, anti-discrimination measures, and police reform.
After becoming leader of the NDP in 2017, Singh focused on issues including healthcare, affordable housing, climate action, workers’ rights, and reducing economic inequality. Under his leadership, the NDP played an influential role in supporting legislation that led to initiatives such as the Canadian Dental Care Plan and the framework for a national pharmacare program through its parliamentary agreement with the Liberal government.
Following the 2025 federal election, Singh lost his parliamentary seat and announced his resignation as party leader, bringing an end to nearly eight years at the helm of the NDP.
Known for his calm communication style, commitment to social justice, and advocacy for diversity and inclusion, Jagmeet Singh remains an influential figure in modern Canadian politics. His leadership helped shape national debates on healthcare, affordability, and equality, leaving a lasting impact on Canada’s progressive political landscape.
