The Canadian government has appointed its first foreign interference watchdog following years of concerns raised by experts and civil society groups regarding transnational repression, CBC News reports.
Fresh Watchdog Appointed
Former British Columbia chief electoral officer Anton Boegman, nominated by the federal government, will serve in the new position. A seven-day period for opposition parties to respond to the nomination has now passed, according to CBC News.
Investigation Highlights Concerns
This appointment comes less than a year after an investigation by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), in collaboration with over 40 media partners, revealed tactics used by Chinese authorities to target critics living abroad. These tactics include surveillance, pressure on family members, and hacking.
The investigation uncovered a coordinated, systematic, and global effort by the Chinese government to neutralize dissent in all forms. In Canada, CBC News reported on instances of intimidation and harassment targeting a Hong Kong pro-democracy advocate in exile and a pro-Taiwan activist, including the use of deepfake images and threats to family members still in China.
Transnational Repression a “Genuine Scourge”
Lawmakers have consistently prioritized addressing this issue. A subsequent foreign interference inquiry concluded that transnational repression is a “genuine scourge” in Canada, identifying China as the “most active perpetrator of foreign interference targeting Canadian democratic institutions,” CBC News reports.
the new watchdog will focus on investigating instances of foreign interference and making recommendations to the government. Further investigations could similarly be initiated, and the watchdog may work to raise public awareness about the issue. A possible next step could be the development of new policies and legislation to counter foreign interference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is transnational repression?
Transnational repression refers to actions taken by governments to suppress dissent beyond their borders, targeting individuals living in other countries, according to the source content.
Which country was identified as the “most active perpetrator” of foreign interference in Canada?
China was identified as the “most active perpetrator of foreign interference targeting Canadian democratic institutions,” CBC News reports.
Who is Anton Boegman?
Anton Boegman is the former British Columbia chief electoral officer who has been nominated as Canada’s first foreign interference watchdog, CBC News reports.
How might this new role impact the future of foreign interference investigations in Canada?
