5 things we learned from the final report on foreign interference

Justice Marie-Josée Hogue, commissioner of the public inquiry into foreign interference, has issued her final report after a thorough 16-month investigation. The report, spanning seven volumes, outlines the evidence gathered from over 150 witnesses regarding attempts to interfere in democratic institutions and the electoral process during the 2019 and 2021 federal elections.

Hogue’s findings highlight the alarming prevalence of misinformation and disinformation as the greatest threat to Canadian democracy. She warns that these tactics have the power to distort discourse, shape societal views, and ultimately pose an existential risk to democracy. While foreign states targeting parliamentarians have received significant attention, Hogue emphasizes that the spread of misinformation on media and social networks is a more pressing concern.

Moreover, Hogue addresses the issue of transnational repression, where foreign states monitor and intimidate immigrant communities in Canada to advance their own agendas. She underscores the detrimental impact of such practices on Canadian sovereignty and democracy, calling for urgent government action to combat this growing threat.

One of the key issues highlighted in the report is the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (NSICOP) report, which implicated some elected officials in aiding foreign interference. Hogue notes the report’s shortcomings and emphasizes the need for caution when relying on intelligence that implicates individuals in misconduct, as it can erode public trust in democratic institutions.

Hogue also identifies challenges in information sharing within government, citing instances where critical intelligence did not reach decision-makers effectively. She emphasizes the need for robust systems to ensure the timely dissemination of crucial information and calls for improved communication protocols to address gaps in the current structure.

In terms of recommendations, Hogue proposes that leaders of all political parties obtain top-secret security clearances to stay informed of potential threats. She highlights the importance of ensuring party leaders are adequately informed to address foreign interference effectively.

Additionally, Hogue suggests reforms to party leadership races, including measures to verify the citizenship status of voters, apply the Canada Elections Act to all leadership contests, and mandate financial reporting for all contestants. These reforms aim to enhance transparency and accountability in the selection of party leaders.

Overall, Hogue’s final report serves as a comprehensive analysis of the challenges posed by foreign interference and misinformation in Canadian democracy. Her recommendations offer a roadmap for strengthening electoral processes and safeguarding democratic institutions against external threats.