Ottawa (TDI): The Government of Canada has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting the integrity of the upcoming general election on April 28, 2025.
In response to emerging threats, including foreign interference and cyber attacks, Canada has implemented comprehensive measures to ensure a free, fair, and secure electoral process.
According to the official statement released by Canadian Security Intelligence Services (CSIS), the Security and Intelligence Threats to Elections (SITE) Task Force – comprising the Communications Security Establishment (CSE), the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), Global Affairs Canada (GAC), and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), continues to play a pivotal role in monitoring and addressing threats to the electoral process.
The statement also said that the Task Force is actively engaged in planning elections, simulation exercises, and regular briefings with political parties to avoid any mishaps.
Moreover, a comprehensive threat assessment report is being developed to inform and protect voters against potential foreign interference.
In March 2024, the Government of Canada introduced amendments to the Elections Act through Bill C-65, aimed at removing barriers to voting, safeguarding personal information, and strengthening protections against foreign interference.
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These legislative efforts underscore the commitment to enhancing citizen participation and trust in the electoral process to ensure free and fair elections.
A few days back, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced elections on April 28, stating he needs a strong administration to address the economic threat posed by US President Donald Trump’s tariffs.
The Communications Security Establishment Canada (CSE) has released the “Cyber Threats to Canada’s Democratic Process: 2025 Update,” highlighting the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) by foreign adversaries to disseminate disinformation and conduct cyber activities targeting elections.
To empower Canadians against disinformation, the Government has launched initiatives such as the Digital Citizen Initiative (DCI) and the Canadian Digital Media Research Network (CDMRN).
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Notably, these programs will focus on enhancing digital literacy, supporting research on information quality, and providing tools to identify and to counter any misinformation.
Furthermore, the Government of Canada said that it is determined to defending the democratic institutions against threats, especially during the upcoming election, and to ensure that the general election reflects the will of the people, free from undue influence or interference.
Areeba Kanwal is a contributor at The Diplomatic Insight and has passion for International Relations and diplomacy.