Alberta is a province in western Canada and one of the Prairie provinces. It borders British Columbia, Saskatchewan, the Northwest Territories and the U.S. state of Montana. Edmonton is its capital, and Calgary is its largest city.

Alberta is a major oil-producing province. Separatist sentiment has been linked to perceptions of unequal influence in federal politics, a distinct provincial identity, and disagreements over economic policy, including policies affecting petroleum and equalization payments.

In the 2026 referendum, voters are being asked whether Alberta should remain in Canada or take steps toward a future binding referendum on separation. The vote is not itself a direct vote on independence.