SoVote

Decentralized Democracy

Senate Bill

Bill S-237

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
May 16, 2023
Foreign Influence Registry and Accountability Act
  • This bill is called the Foreign Influence Registry and Accountability Act. It aims to increase transparency and accountability in Canada's democratic process by addressing concerns about foreign interference in the government. The bill establishes a registry where individuals acting on behalf of a foreign government or organization must file a return if they undertake certain actions with public office holders. It also amends the Criminal Code to increase the sentence for intimidation if the offender acted on behalf of a foreign government. Anyone who files a return under this act is presumed to be acting on behalf of a foreign government, unless proven otherwise.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • Steelman argument in favor of Bill S-237: Transparency and accountability are essential for a healthy democratic process. Bill S-237, the Foreign Influence Registry and Accountability Act, aims to address concerns about foreign interference in Canada's political processes. By establishing a foreign influence registry, the act ensures that individuals acting on behalf of foreign principals are held accountable for their actions. This registry will enable the public and relevant authorities to have access to information about individuals who are communicating with public office holders and arranging meetings on behalf of a foreign principal. The act also amends the Criminal Code to increase the sentence for intimidation if the offender acted on behalf of a foreign government. This amendment recognizes the potentially greater harm when intimidation is used by foreign states to influence the outcome of Canada's electoral processes. By re

SteelmanSpren Against

  • One possible steelman argument against this bill is that it could potentially infringe on individuals' right to freedom of expression and association. By requiring individuals to file a return when communicating with public office holders on behalf of a foreign principal, the bill could have a chilling effect on legitimate advocacy and lobbying efforts. This may discourage individuals from engaging in meaningful conversations and sharing their perspectives with public office holders, which is an important aspect of a functioning democracy. Additionally, the presumption that anyone who has filed a return is acting on behalf of a foreign state could lead to unfounded suspicions and stigmatization of individuals who may have legitimate reasons for engaging with foreign entities. It is important to strike a balance between transparency and accountability and protecting individuals' fundamental rights and freedoms.
Senate First Reading
  • March 29, 2022, 2 p.m.
  • In Progress
  • Read