Foreign interference report is just the start of a conversation about Canadian democracy

The recent conclusion of the foreign-interference saga that captivated Parliament Hill for two years has brought the issue to an unofficial close. Justice Marie-Josée Hogue’s final report, while somewhat anticlimactic, has opened the door to a much-needed discussion on enhancing Canadian democracy.

One of the key recommendations in Hogue’s report is the consideration of revising Canada’s political financing laws. She highlights the former per-vote subsidy provided by the federal government, which was discontinued in 2015. This has led to an increased reliance on private donations by political parties, potentially creating vulnerabilities for foreign interference. Reinstating a form of direct public funding could help level the playing field and reduce the need for divisive fundraising tactics.

In addition to the threat of foreign interference, Hogue also emphasizes the dangers of misinformation and disinformation, labeling it as an “existential threat” to Canadian democracy. She stresses the importance of addressing this issue, as it has the power to distort discourse, manipulate views, and shape society. Building civic resilience and supporting a healthy information environment through public education, new regulations, and implementation of the Global Declaration on Information Integrity Online are among the recommendations put forth.

Another controversial recommendation in Hogue’s report involves supporting professional media to combat misinformation and disinformation. By modernizing media funding and economic models while preserving independence and neutrality, the government can provide Canadians with reliable resources to assess online information. While there may be differing opinions on government support for journalism, the overarching goal is to strengthen democracy and combat the challenges posed by misinformation.

As the events unfolding in the United States demonstrate, the conversation around preserving and enhancing democracy is ongoing and crucial. The foreign-interference saga may have come to a close, but it serves as a reminder of the continuous effort required to safeguard the democratic principles upon which Canada is built. By heeding Hogue’s recommendations and engaging in thoughtful discourse, Canadians can work towards a stronger and healthier democracy for the future.