Message from the Foreign Influence Commissioner
It is a privilege to serve as Canada's first Foreign Influence Transparency Commissioner.
Foreign engagement is a longstanding and valuable part of Canada's social, economic, and diplomatic landscape. Many international relationships contribute positively to our national life. However, when influence is exercised in ways that are concealed, deceptive or intended to shape our public decision-making without transparency, it can erode confidence in our democratic processes.
The establishment of this Office represents an important step in strengthening transparency and accountability, in support of these processes. Greater transparency around activities with linkages to foreign principals, particularly those connected to public decision-making in Canada, will help Canadians better understand these activities and will work to strengthen trust.
As Commissioner, I am responsible for overseeing the administration of the transparency model established under the Foreign Influence Transparency and Accountability Act (the Act). This includes:
- maintaining a public registry and providing guidance to people and organizations whose activities may fall within the scope of the Act
- promoting public awareness and understanding of the new framework and its requirements
- engaging constructively with stakeholders, including communities, civil society and all levels of government, to better understand issues and support resilience building
- carrying out investigations, when necessary, and enforcing compliance with the Act, which should also act to deter non-compliant actors
- reporting publicly on activities, compliance, and emerging issues
Transparency in our political and governmental process serves the public interest. When information is clear and accessible, Canadians are better equipped to understand how influence is exercised, on whose behalf, and how decisions are made. Transparency in these areas also supports legitimate advocacy, public debate and international cooperation.
The establishment of the Office of the Foreign Influence Commissioner of Canada is an important step to help protect Canadians from the threat of foreign interference, and to enhance our collective resilience against malign foreign influence. I look forward to carrying out its mandate with integrity, independence and a commitment to strengthening trust in our democratic institutions.