Foreign Interference Commission releases Policy Consultations topics and panelists
October 18, 2024 (Ottawa) – The Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes and Democratic Institutions has released further details of the Policy consultations that will take place during the week of October 21, 2024.
The Commission’s mandate has two aspects: a factual aspect and a policy aspect. The Commission’s factual hearings concluded on October 16, 2024.
Following consultation with the Commissioner, Commission counsel, Participants and external experts, the Commission’s Research Council has identified seven topics for discussion by panels of experts. The round tables will be moderated by a member of the Research Council and/or Commission counsel.
“Our research team has recruited close to 40 experts who will provide their perspectives on a wide range of topics related to the Commission’s mandate,” said Commissioner Hogue. “Their contributions will be invaluable to me in developing recommendations to preserve the integrity of Canada’s electoral processes and democratic institutions and enhance Canadians’ trust and confidence in their democracy.”
Here are the topics that will be discussed during the policy roundtables:
Monday October 21:
- 9:00am – Building Democratic Resilience Amid Value Conflict
- 1:30pm - Diplomatic Perspectives on the Foreign Intervention ‘Gray Zone’
Tuesday October 22:
- 9:00am – Disinformation, Digital Space and Democratic Processes
- 1:30pm – Electoral Integrity: Nomination Contests and Leadership Contests
Wednesday October 23:
- 9:00am – Canada’s National Security Apparatus
- 1:30pm – Enforcing, Deterring and Prosecuting Foreign Interference Activities
Thursday October 24:
- 9:00am – Electoral Integrity: Political Financing
Following the completion of the policy round tables on Thursday October 24, Participants are invited to make closing oral submissions to the Commission, starting at 1:30 pm.
Further details on the panel discussions, including an overview of each topic, a list of questions for discussion, and the names of the panelists are available on the Commission’s website.
The policy phase of the Foreign Interference Commission will be held in the Bambrick Room at 395 Wellington Street in Ottawa. The consultation sessions will take place each day between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. Members of the public are welcome to attend; a live webcast of the proceedings will be available on the Commission’s website in both official languages. Sign language interpretation (ASL and LSQ) will also be available.
The Government of Canada created the Foreign Interference Commission in September 2023 to respond to concerns about foreign interference in the 2019 and 2021 federal elections. The Commission released an Initial Report on May 3, 2024. In the second stage of its work, the Commission is assessing the federal government’s capacity to detect, deter, and counter foreign interference. The Commission intends to deliver its final report, which will include findings and recommendations, by December 31, 2024.
Contact:
Michael Tansey
Sr. Communications Advisor
Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes and Democratic Institutions
(343) 630-2154
michael.tansey@pifi-epie.gc.ca
www.ForeignInterferenceCommission.ca
Follow us on X (formerly Twitter): @PIFIEPIE