On March 10th, 2023, the Canadian federal government published “Government of Canada launches public consultations on a Foreign Influence Transparency Registry in Canada.”
“Canada will never accept foreign interference in our affairs. When it comes to hostile states who attempt to interfere in our country, our eyes are wide open. Consultations on the creation of a Canadian Foreign Influence Transparency Registry will bolster our efforts to address interference and protect Canadians.”
– The Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Public Safety
All Canadians are encouraged to share their views through the consultation web page, where they can learn more about this important issue and submit their input. Online submissions will be accepted until May 9, 2023. The input received through this consultation will help develop new measures to bolster Canada’s national security.
In recent years, Canada has increasingly become a target of hostile states. From hacking to harassment, these authoritarian regimes have stepped up their efforts to interfere in our country’s democratic, economic and academic institutions.
Some foreign governments may seek to leverage individuals or entities to undertake non-transparent, malign activities intended to shape Canadian government policy, outcomes, or public opinion, without disclosing their foreign government ties.
The Government of Canada is engaging the Canadian public – as well as key stakeholders in the fields of academia, law, business, advocacy organizations, and diaspora communities – on potential new tools to protect against foreign interference. Engaging the individuals and communities most affected is critical to ensuring measures capture a wide range of views and expertise.
Please participant consultation to let your voice to be herded. Visit the Consultation Page.
Respond anonymously to our six-question survey prior to May 9, 2023. Results will be compiled in aggregate form to ensure anonymity.
The Cover image credit: Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino speaks during a news conference in February in Ottawa. Mendicino said in an interview the government will consult the public on whether Canada should follow the lead of key allies including the United States and Australia in establishing a registry. (Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press)
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