Canada is set to appoint its first foreign interference watchdog next month, with a new foreign agent registry slated for launch later this fall, as announced by Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree. In a recent interview with CBC News, Anandasangaree emphasized the importance of combating transnational repression and foreign interference within Canada, highlighting it as a top priority of the Prime Minister.
Following last year’s enactment of foreign interference legislation, Anandasangaree, entrusted by Prime Minister Mark Carney, aims to ensure readiness for implementing the measures when Parliament reconvenes. Stressing Canada’s sovereignty and ability to safeguard its citizens, Anandasangaree warned against any attempts to undermine these principles, citing recent attacks on Canada by U.S. President Donald Trump as further evidence of the urgency to tackle transnational repression.
More than a year after the passage of Bill C-70 in response to revelations of foreign interference, Anandasangaree disclosed that the government is currently screening potential candidates for the new foreign interference transparency commissioner position. The legislation, effective since June 2024, also mandates the creation of a public registry listing individuals working in Canada as agents for foreign governments.
Anandasangaree is optimistic about presenting candidate names for review by opposition parties, including the Conservatives and Bloc Québécois, with recognized status before Parliament resumes on September 15. Once the commissioner is appointed, the government plans to proceed with establishing the registry through an order-in-council, with regulations currently in development.
Furthermore, the government intends to implement several recommendations from the public inquiry on foreign interference led by Justice Marie-Josée Hogue, which identified transnational repression as a significant issue in Canada, particularly involving the People’s Republic of China. Recent investigations have revealed instances of Chinese transnational repression in Canada, targeting dissidents who oppose China’s stance on various issues including democracy in Hong Kong, treatment of Uyghurs, Tibetan freedom, Falun Gong, and Taiwanese independence.
Anandasangaree condemned such actions as unacceptable and confirmed ongoing efforts to address allegations of Chinese centers in Canadian cities engaging in transnational repression, subject to a police investigation. He emphasized the government’s commitment to upholding the law and ensuring that any foreign government’s involvement in such activities on Canadian soil is swiftly and decisively dealt with.