House of Commons Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs

House of Commons Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs
October 27, 2022
11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Key Messages

CSIS mandate and role

• CSIS’ mandate is to identify and advise the Government of threats to our national security, which are clearly defined in section 2 of the CSIS Act and include espionage and sabotage, foreign influenced-activities, terrorism and violent extremism, and subversion.
• CSIS is specifically prohibited from investigating lawful protest and dissent. CSIS may investigate only once a threat rises to our investigative threshold; namely it must be ideologically driven, attempt to affect societal change, and be characterized by a willingness to commit or inspire serious acts of violence.
• Of course, as you know the Service is limited in what it can say in an unclassified setting, since we cannot publicly comment on operational matters and requirements.
• That said, we remain committed to our continued engagement with your colleagues on the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (NSICOP), where we can discuss important classified issues.

Recent media reporting concerning CSIS operations

• There are necessary limits to what CSIS can say on intelligence given the need to protect sensitive operations and sources of intelligence from harm.
• The Service is steadfast in its commitment to protecting Canada’s national security in an ethical and transparent manner.
• We are subject to rigorous review as we work to keep Canada and Canadians safe in a very dangerous world.
• Canadians can be assured that Canada’s accountability regime for intelligence activities is one of the most robust in the world. We are bound by strict rules.
• All of CSIS’ activities must comply with Canadian law, including the CSIS Act and the Charter, as well as Ministerial Directions.
• Our activities are also subject to review by the National Security and Intelligence Review Agency and the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians.

Listing of terrorist entities

• Listings are an important tool for the Government of Canada and send a signal that extremist activities are not tolerated in Canada.
• CSIS is a partner in the Public Safety-led terrorist listings regime. The Service is one of several departments and agencies charged with informing the Minister of Public Safety as to the threat that violent extremist entities may pose to Canada, from a national security perspective.
• Intelligence and evidence guide the terrorist listing process and are primary determinants for which entities are considered for listing under the Criminal Code.
• CSIS also works closely with its international partners on understanding the evolution of the global extremist landscape and emerging threat environment so that it is positioned to provide assessments and advice to support actions, including by law enforcement as appropriate.

Modernizing CSIS authorities

• CSIS’ authorities must remain current so that we are able to address the challenges of the significantly more complex legal, operational and technological environment in which we operate.
• We need laws that enable data-driven investigations, carefully constructed to reflect the values we share in our democracy, including robust privacy protections.
• At the same time, what the COVID-19 pandemic has shown us is that threat actors will continue to exploit vulnerabilities – whether it’s stealing life-saving Canadian research or indoctrinating Canadians into conspiracy theories about the virus, public health measures and the vaccine.
• Keeping pace continually with changes in the threat, technological and legal environment will ensure that we can continue to fulfill our mandate of keeping Canada and Canadians safe – and do so in a way that is consistent with Canada’s values and the trust that Canadians place in us.
• However, these decisions are made at the political level and with support from our other Government of Canada partners both within the Public Safety Portfolio and with the Department of Justice.
• To be clear, the purpose of amending the Act would not be to lower safeguards, but rather to ensure CSIS has the authorities to provide timely, relevant advice in line with Government and Canadians’ expectations of their intelligence service.

Freedom Convoy 22

CSIS mandate; s.2(c) and 2(d) definitions

• As this Committee is well aware, CSIS has the mandate to investigate threats to the security of Canada, to advise the Government on these threats, and to take measures to reduce them.
• The threats to Canada’s national security are clearly defined in section 2 of the CSIS Act and include espionage and sabotage, foreign influenced-activities, terrorism and violent extremism, and subversion.
• More specifically, section 2(c) defines them as: activities within or relating to Canada directed toward or in support of the threat or use of acts of serious violence against persons or property for the purpose of achieving a political, religious or ideological objective within Canada or a foreign state.
• And section 2(d) also defines them as: activities directed toward undermining by covert unlawful acts, or directed toward or intended ultimately to lead to the destruction or overthrow by violence of, the constitutionally established system of government in Canada.
• As such, CSIS does not investigate lawful advocacy, protest or dissent. While the internet is filled with racist, bigoted and misogynistic language and narratives, much of it falls under the category of ‘awful but lawful’.
• As you can understand, I cannot comment on specific details regarding our operations.
• What I can say is that CSIS closely monitored the opportunities the protests could have presented to IMVE actors to promote or engage in serious acts of violence in Canada.

Anti-authority movements and conspiracy theories

• The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated xenophobic and anti-authority narratives, many of which may directly or indirectly impact national security considerations. Violent extremists continue to exploit the pandemic by amplifying false information about government measures and the virus itself on the internet.
• Some violent extremists view COVID-19 as a real but welcome crisis that could hasten the collapse of Western society. Other violent extremist entities have adopted conspiracy theories about the pandemic in an attempt to rationalize and justify violence.
• These narratives have contributed to efforts to undermine trust in the integrity of government and confidence in scientific expertise.
• While aspects of conspiracy theory rhetoric are a legitimate exercise in free expression, online rhetoric that is increasingly violent and calls for the arrest and execution of specific individuals is of concern.
• IMVE conspiracy theories are often influenced by decentralized online trends and communities of extremist influencers who interpret local, national and international events through a radical lens.
• These broader narratives are often individualized by extremists and are impacted by perceived concerns regarding economic well-being, safety and security, the COVID-19 pandemic or other special events.

Diagolon

• As you know, the Coutts case is currently before the Courts, which limits our ability to comment.
• Furthermore, the Service is also limited in what it can say in an unclassified setting, since we cannot publicly comment on operational matters and investigations.
• However, let me assure you that CSIS remained engaged with the RCMP as appropriate throughout the protests, and that CSIS closely monitored the opportunities the protests could have presented to IMVE actors to promote or engage in serious acts of violence in Canada.
• As well, as I have previously said, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated xenophobic and anti-authority narratives, and violent extremists continue to exploit the pandemic in an attempt to rationalize and justify violence.
• Some violent extremists welcome the collapse of Western society and seek opportunities to hasten it.
• CSIS and its partners, both domestic and international, remain vigilant to this threat.
• Under these considerations, CSIS does assess Diagolon to be an anti-government network.

Background (unclassified):

The Raging Dissident initially created Diagolon in January 2021 as a fictitious country to inspire unity amongst like-minded people. Diagolon was created as a symbol of defiance against the government’s COVID-19 restrictions and mandated vaccinations. Over the past year, Diagolon has expanded from an online presence to a real-world network and promotes extreme anti-government narratives centered on a range of grievances.

Protests and funding

• During the protests in Ottawa and across Canada earlier this year, CSIS remained committed to continue assessing threats to Canada's national security during the important operational activities underway by law enforcement partners.
• While the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly is an important part of our democracy, individuals are not justified in breaking the law or engaging in violence. CSIS supported the City of Ottawa and the enforcement actions being taken by the Ottawa Police Service, and their law enforcement partners.
• On financial reporting, CSIS continued to work within the parameters of the CSIS Act to support the Government of Canada in implementing measures that were in effect under the Emergencies Act.
• The Emergencies Act did not expand CSIS’ powers to investigate or take threat reduction measures. CSIS continued to work within the existing authorities of the CSIS Act.
• Under the Emergencies Act, other designated entities had expanded requirements to report to CSIS certain activities linked to designated persons. CSIS engaged with its financial partners to ensure that disclosures specifically related to its national security mandate.
• With respect to foreign sources of funding, CSIS’ mandate is engaged when funds are provided at the direction of or with the support of a foreign state or when those donating the money are doing so to support an act of serious violence or terrorism.

FC22 and way forward

• The bringing together of individuals with differing ideological motivations around a common cause is typical of the IMVE space. However, each radicalization pathway or mobilization to violence is highly individual, and discerning common features or triggers in order to predict action is a core challenge for CSIS and law enforcement partners.
• While CSIS’s work is often undertaken outside of the public eye, we are steadfast in our commitment to work in partnership with communities and individuals, alongside law enforcement, to keep them safe from threats to the security of Canada.
• CSIS works pro-actively with the RCMP, the Department of Justice and the Public Prosecution Service of Canada to align operational efforts, and seek solutions in the interest of public safety. Indeed, we have a duty to share threat-related information within the Government of Canada in order to mitigate risks to public safety.
• In addition, CSIS works closely with its domestic and international partners on understanding the evolution of the threat environment so that it is positioned to provide assessments and advice to support actions, including by law enforcement where appropriate.
• While the IMVE threats directly implicate CSIS’ mandate, there are broader strategic considerations at play. In particular, the manifestation of IMVE activities affect policy considerations related to online harms, the resilience of our democratic institutions, the security of parliamentarians, dialogue with racialized communities, and engagements on national security issues at all levels of government.

Ideologically Motivated Violent Extremism (IMVE)

Issue: What is ideologically motivated violent extremism? What is CSIS’ role and assessment of this threat?

Key Messages

• CSIS takes the long standing threats of religiously, politically and ideologically motivated violent extremism very seriously.
• The uncertain environment caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic is ripe for exploitation by violent extremists.
• It is important to understand that extremism can stem from a range of motivations and personal grievances and is driven by hatred and fear and includes a complex range of threat actors.
• IMVE can stem from a range of ideologies and is driven by hatred and fear. These ideologies can be:
  • xenophobic and linked to white supremacy or neo-Nazism, and ethno-nationalism;
  • anti-authority and targeted at governments and law enforcement;
  • gender-driven, which can lead to violent misogyny; and
  • based on other grievances without clear affiliation to an organized group or external guidance.
• Extremists draw inspiration from a variety of sources including, books music, and of course, online discussions, videos and propaganda. Those holding extremist views often attempt to create a culture of fear, hatred and mistrust by leveraging an online audience in an attempt to legitimize their beliefs and move from the fringes of society to the mainstream.
• As freedom of speech is constitutionally protected, CSIS can only investigate threat actors who meet its investigative threshold – those who are mobilizing to violence or are providing support to an act of violence, as defined in the CSIS Act.
• As such, CSIS does not investigate lawful advocacy, protest or dissent. While the internet is filled with racist, bigoted and misogynistic language and narratives, much of it falls under the category of ‘awful but lawful’.

Threat Landscape

• Ideologically motivated violent extremism (IMVE) is a complex and constantly evolving threat. It has the potential to grow, lead to more acts of serious violence, and cause further erosion of trust in our institutions of government.
• IMVE is often driven by a range of grievances and ideas from across the ideological spectrum. The resulting worldview consists of a personalized narrative that centre on an extremist’s willingness to incite, enable and / or mobilize to violence.
• These last few months and years have shown the threat that IMVE represents in Canada The combination of major disruptive global events like the pandemic, the ever-increasing influence of social media and its global reach, and the spread of conspiracy theories has created an uncertain environment ripe for exploitation by violent extremists.
• Canada is not immune to acts of violent extremism; Individuals in Canada are exploiting this environment by spreading violent rhetoric online and some have engaged in violence.
• Since 2014, IMVE related attacks have resulted in 26 individuals who have been killed and 40 injured on Canadian soil. As you all remember, last year on June 6th in London, Ontario, we saw the threat itself in a tragic attack where four members of the same family were run down and killed because of their faith. Quite simply, this act was despicable and has no place in our society.

Rise of IMVE threat in Canada

• As reported by the Security Intelligence Review Committee (SIRC) in January 2016, CSIS concluded that the extent and nature of the Right Wing Extremist (RWE) threat no longer met the CSIS threshold for investigation. As such, CSIS ended its investigation into RWE in March 2016.
• In January 2017, following the attack at the Grande Mosquée in Québec City, CSIS reopened its investigation into RWE.
• At that time, CSIS observed that the motivations behind this type of violent extremism had become more complex. Individuals were no longer influenced by a singular and definable belief system, but a range of very personal and diverse grievances.
• For that reason, CSIS took a leading role in developing an understanding and terminology that more accurately depicts the broad range of motivations behind this particular extremist threat facing Canada.
• Based on its findings, CSIS decided to stop using the terms “right-wing” and “left-wing” to define the threat. Instead, it uses ideologically motivated violent extremism – which has now been adopted by both Australia and New-Zealand.
• It is clear from the 2017 Mosque attack, the 2018 van attack, the 2020 spa attack in Toronto, and the 2021 van attack in London, that Canada is not immune to acts committed in whole or in part by IMVE.

Online threat environment

• Violent extremism online continues to represent a deeply concerning threat to public safety and a significant area of focus for CSIS, as it evolves in complexity.
• Online threats represent a modern challenge and demonstrate the clear need for CSIS to be equipped with the tools and authorities it requires in order to protect Canada and Canadians in the digital age.
• As technology and applications proliferate, extremist online collectives can replicate disinformation and interference campaigns that were once the reserve of state actors or large non-state organizations.
• Threat actors have access to a wealth of information online and CSIS has seen a surge in violent extremist content proliferating in that environment. Propaganda is easily disseminated using both mainstream and alternative media and social media platforms.
• We have seen a combination of misinformation and disinformation pollute the global information environment. This manipulation and propagation of information can erode confidence in our democratic values, institutions, and polarize societies while undermining trust in our democratically elected governments.
• Many of these platforms can be used anonymously or leverage encryption technologies to enable threat actors to conceal their identity and evade detection by law enforcement and security agencies, while spreading their message, inciting violence and recruiting link-minded individuals.
• If violent extremists are spreading propaganda online to recruit and fundraise for their cause, inspiring acts of violence or conducting a live terrorist act for an online audience, CSIS and law enforcement need to be informed of the threat and equipped to investigate and prevent further threat activity.

Gender-Driven IMVE

• Incel (involuntary celibate) ideology bears many of the hallmarks of more traditionally recognized ideologies, and from the Canadian perspective, conforms to our definition of terrorism and is considered within the general terrorism offence framework.
• Incels belong to a misogynistic community of males, who associate primarily through online platforms. Though they use a unified terminology, they are not an organized group and have no centralized structure or planning.
• Incels believe their genetics determine the quality of their life and relationships, meaning they blame their unattractive physical features for their inability to attract women. They attribute their perceived failings in life to women and society in general.
• The ideology/beliefs within the “Manosphere” (a network of online misogynistic and male supremacy communities) stretch from lawful discussion of men’s rights issues to glorification of violence and violent misogyny. Forums also fluidly combine their resentment of women with racist narratives involving immigrants and people of colour.
• Since 2014, individuals motivated, fully or in part, by Incel ideology have, through numerous attacks, killed and wounded more than 110 individuals in Canada and the United States.
• In Canada, Alek Minassian’s perception and beliefs were motivated in whole or in part by Incel ideology when he deliberately ran down pedestrians with his van, killing 11 and injuring 15. In May 2020, Toronto Police arrested a 17 year male and charged him with terrorist activity after he stabbed a woman to death and injured 2 more at a massage parlor, stating evidence showed the attack was inspired by Incel ideology.

Terrorist listings

• Listings are an important tool for the Government of Canada and send a signal that extremist activities are not tolerated in Canada.
• CSIS is a partner in the Public Safety-led terrorist listings regime. The Service is one of several departments and agencies charged with informing the Minister of Public Safety as to the threat that violent extremist entities may pose to Canada, from a national security perspective.
• Intelligence and evidence guide the terrorist listing process and are primary determinants for which entities are considered for listing under the Criminal Code.
• CSIS also works closely with its international partners on understanding the evolution of the global extremist landscape and emerging threat environment so that it is positioned to provide assessments and advice to support actions, including by law enforcement as appropriate.

On specific groups being investigated

• CSIS does not investigate Canadians participating in lawful demonstrations or protests in Canada or elsewhere, absent other indications of threat-related activity.
• As freedom of speech is constitutionally protected, CSIS can only investigate threat actors who meet its investigative threshold – those who are mobilizing to violence or are providing support to an act of violence, as defined in section 2(c) of the CSIS Act.
• As you know, the Service is limited in what it can say in an unclassified setting, and we cannot publicly comment further on operational matters and requirements.

Religiously Motivated Violent Extremism

Issue: is CSIS still concerned about religiously motivated violent extremism?

Key Messages

• While CSIS has made IMVE investigations a priority in the last several years, this should not be understood to mean that the Service has deemphasized its Religiously Motivated Violent Extremism (RMVE) investigations.
• RMVE remains a top investigative priority for CSIS and remains a threat to Canadian national security as attacks can be planned and executed swiftly with little warning.
• Recent acts of RMVE violence in Canada and abroad have been characterized by low-sophistication, high-impact attacks, frequently targeting civilians and public spaces.
• The October 2014 attacks in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu and on Parliament Hill and the National War Memorial here in Ottawa, remind us that Canada is not immune to the threat of RMVE.
• Canadians and Canadian interests abroad have been and continue to be the targets of acts of religiously-motivated extremist violence in an ever-evolving global threat landscape.
• CSIS works very closely with the RCMP to inform possible criminal investigations or enforcement action as appropriate.
• As a result of individuals spending more time online and therefore potentially becoming more exposed to online messaging, CSIS assesses that COVID-19 has potentially increased the threat of RMVE radicalization among certain threat actors.

Canadian Extremist Travellers

Key Messages

• CSIS and the Government of Canada have continued to monitor and respond to the threat of Canadian extremist travellers (CETs).
• CETs who seek to return to Canada can pose a threat to national security.
• While I cannot go into specifics about individuals, I can generally say that individuals who travelled abroad to engage in extremist activities are of concern to CSIS.
• These individuals may leave Canada to support, facilitate, or participate in violent extremist activities.
• These individuals may have been further radicalized, and may have acquired training and combat experience abroad. Their personal experiences may also be instructive to others who are radicalized.
• Individual CETs are assessed on a case by case basis.
• CETs pose a wide range of security concerns, both while abroad and if they return to Canada. Broadly speaking, CETs have affiliations with multiple violent extremist groups and movements, and may represent IMVE, politically motivated violent extremism (PMVE), and/or RMVE perspectives.
• As you can appreciate, I cannot discuss the precise nature of our investigations for reasons of national security. But, I can assure you that CSIS takes very seriously the threats to Canada posed by violent extremists, both at home and around the world.
• Global Affairs Canada remains the Government of Canada lead on this issue given that the majority of cases are consular. GAC continues to provide guidance to the Government of Canada for the provision of urgent or extraordinary assistance to a detained CET and any children facing difficult circumstances.
• The Service continues to be part of interdepartmental discussions and as per its mandate, provides advice to government partners on possible threats to Canadian national security.

If pressed on children in the camps:

• CSIS’ concern is with individuals who may pose a threat to the security of Canada. As the cases of young children are consular in nature, enquiries should be directed to Global Affairs Canada.

Afghanistan

Issue: What is CSIS’ role in supporting the humanitarian effort with regards to Afghanistan?

Key Messages

• CSIS understands the humanitarian imperative of assisting vulnerable Afghans and unquestionably wants to protect those whose lives are at risk. However, we must ensure that threat actors cannot take advantage of Canada’s efforts by leveraging immigration pathways or circumventing anti-terrorist financing laws.
• CSIS remains a key partner to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada in its efforts to evacuate vulnerable Afghans in support of this humanitarian imperative. The Service plays an important role in ensuring that threat actors cannot leverage immigration pathways to Canada.
• In light of the evolving situation in Afghanistan, and the potential new security risks that it creates, CSIS has prioritized its collection and assessment efforts, specifically as they relate to supporting the security screening process.
• As the security situation in Afghanistan is fluid and evolving, CSIS is continuing to engage domestic and international partners to assess what best practices can be applied to ensure the most robust process.

Foreign Interference in Canada - General

Issue: What is CSIS’ understanding of this threat?

Key Messages

• Foreign Interference is one of the greatest strategic threats to Canada’s national security because it undermines Canadian sovereignty, national interests and values.
• Foreign interference is a complex modern threat. States employ foreign interference activities against a range of Canadian interests, including the integrity of our political system and democratic institutions, economy and long-term prosperity, foreign policy and military, social harmony, and fundamental rights and freedoms.
• It is also a national threat. It targets all levels of government as well as communities across Canada.
• Foreign interference activities encompass a range of techniques, including human intelligence operations, the use of state-sponsored or foreign-influenced media, and sophisticated cyber tools.
• This threat activity has long been present in Canada, but its scale, speed, range, and impact have grown as a result of globalization and technology.

Foreign Interference Manifestations

Democratic institutions

• Democratic institutions and processes, including elections, are vulnerable and valuable targets for hostile activities by state actors. Canada is not immune to these threat activities. This is not new.
• Hostile activities by certain state actors, such as the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China, seek to manipulate and abuse Canada’s democratic system to further their own national interests, or to discredit Canada’s democratic institutions and erode public confidence.
• Threat actors have sought to clandestinely target politicians, political parties, electoral nomination processes, and media outlets in order to influence the Canadian public and democratic processes.
• For instance, state-sponsored cyber threat actors use computer network operations to interfere with elections.

Communities

• Foreign states or their proxies have also threatened and intimidated persons in Canada, including members of Canadian communities, to attempt to influence their opinions and behaviours.

Media

• Both traditional media outlets, such as publications, radio and television programs, and non-traditional media, such as online sources and social media, can be targeted to advance a foreign state’s intent.
• Mainstream news outlets, as well as community sources, may also be targeted by foreign states who attempt to shape public opinion, debate, and covertly influence participation in the democratic process.

Hotlines

• As is common in large, multicultural countries, Canadian communities are subject to clandestine and deceptive manipulation by foreign states. This is foreign interference. CSIS and the RCMP actively investigate this threat to our national security.
• Both the RCMP and CSIS have phone numbers and online reporting mechanisms that are monitored 24/7 for anyone who would like to report a threat to national security, including foreign interference.
• Should individuals ever be concerned for their personal safety and security, it is essential that they contact their local police for immediate action.
• CSIS’ tip line is 613-993-9620, toll-free at 1-800-267-7685. The TTY/TDD number is 613-991-9228. The online reporting mechanism is on CSIS’ web page under “Reporting National Security Information.”

Foreign Interface in Canada – Democratic Institutions

Issue: What is CSIS’ role in protecting Canada’s democracy?

On CSIS’ role in protecting Canada’s democratic institutions

• CSIS is responsible for investigating foreign interference threats to national security and advising the Government of Canada on those.
• CSIS distinguishes between overt – and sometimes aggressive – lobbying and clandestine or deceptive interference activities. Clandestine foreign interference activities can pose significant harm to our democratic institutions and processes.
• CSIS has longstanding investigations into specific threat actors who are believed to be targeting Canada and Canadians through clandestine, deceptive or threatening means.
• CSIS also routinely engages with a variety of stakeholders including government and public officials, the private sector and other organizations to discuss potential threats to the security and interests of Canada and to provide briefings regarding specific threats. This can include elected officials.
• CSIS delivers these briefings in order to promote awareness of foreign interference and the actions of other hostile actors and to strengthen individual security practices and protect Canadians and their interests.
• As a member of the SITE Task Force, CSIS worked closely with partners in efforts to raise awareness and assess foreign interference threats against the 2019 and 2021 Federal Elections.
• CSIS actively investigated a number of threats across Canada in relation to the election, and provided classified briefings on these threats to the Critical Election Incident Public Protocol Panel.
• While I cannot provide more detail on specific cases, CSIS takes all allegations of interference in Canada’s democratic institutions or processes by a foreign state very seriously.

General Election 44

• As we did in 2019, in 2021 CSIS continued to work with its partners to advise the Government of Canada on foreign interference threats to our democratic institutions, including through the Security and Intelligence Threats to Elections (SITE) Task Force.
• The Critical Election Incident Public Protocol lays out a simple, clear and impartial process by which Canadians would be notified of a threat to the integrity of a federal election. Under the Protocol, a public announcement would only occur if the Panel determined that an incident or an accumulation of incidents has occurred that threatens Canada’s ability to have a free and fair election.
• As was the case in 2019, no public announcement was made in 2021.
• CSIS continues to prioritize outreach and engagement to raise awareness of the foreign interference threat across key sectors and civil society.
• That is why, ahead of the most recent federal election, we released a public report on Foreign Interference Threats to Canada’s Democratic Process.

Threat reduction measures

• The Canadian Security Intelligence Service’s threat reduction mandate provides an important tool for the Government of Canada to respond to threats.
• While I can’t get into specifics, CSIS may take threat reduction measures when there are reasonable grounds to believe that a particular activity constitutes a threat to the security of Canada or Canadians.
• As previously indicated, CSIS monitors threat-related activity closely, advises the Government on these threats, and uses its full mandate in order to reduce threats to national security if necessary.
• I am committed to ensuring CSIS can act effectively protect national security while meeting its legal obligations and respecting Canadians’ rights.

Foreign Agents Registry

• Foreign states use a range of methods to influence policy-making in Canada and promote their national interests.
• CSIS participates in discussions within the security and intelligence community as to what tools are needed to protect Canada’s national security and sovereignty.
• We also engage with our close partners to discuss their experiences in dealing with similar issues of foreign interference and espionage.

Russian Federation and foreign interference

Key Messages

• In the past several years, CSIS has observed espionage and foreign interference activity at levels not seen since the Cold War.
• Foreign interference activities are almost always conducted to further the interests of a foreign country using both state and non-state entities, including state proxies and co-optees. These activities are directed at Canadian entities both inside and outside of Canada, and directly threaten national security.
• State-sponsored disinformation campaigns represent one of the many vectors of foreign interference. Hostile states have been involved in actively spreading such disinformation in an effort to discredit our government institutions, negatively impact social cohesion and gain influence for their own strategic objectives.
• For instance, as noted in its 2021 Public Report, CSIS is aware of several Russian military and intelligence entities that are engaged in information confrontations targeting Ukraine. These activities include the spread of disinformation and propaganda attempting to paint Ukraine and NATO as the aggressors in the current conflict. Such measures are intended to falsely influence populations into believing that Ukraine has provoked a global conflict.
• Additionally, as CSIS indicated in its 2020 Public Report, Russia and the Russian Intelligence Services have, for example, been actively engaged in disinformation campaigns since a March 2020 in an effort to blame the West for the COVID-19 pandemic. This is part of a broader campaign to discredit and create divisions in the West, promote Russia’s influence abroad, and push for an end to Western sanctions.
• While I cannot go in into detail on specific measures, Canadians can rest assured that the CSIS uses the full suite of tools at its disposal to investigate and counter foreign interference.
• Our work ensures the Government of Canada receives intelligence on the critical issue that is foreign interference, and that actions to reduce the threat are taken as appropriate.
• Considering the current situation in in Ukraine, CSIS remains vigilant to any threat activities against Canada and Canadian interests.

Cyber

• Cyber actors conduct malicious activities to advance their political, economic, military, security, and ideological interests. They seek to compromise both government and private sector computer systems by manipulating their users or exploiting security vulnerabilities.
• In 2020, a cyber espionage group linked to Russian intelligence services conducted Computer Network Operations (CNOs) directed towards Canadian, British, and American-based organizations that were involved in COVID-19 response and recovery efforts.
• These malicious cyber activities were believed to be an attempt to steal information and intellectual property related to the development and testing of COVID-19 vaccines.
• Of similar concern, non-state actors, including terrorist groups, have also attempted to conduct CNOs to further their ideological objectives, such as recruiting supporters, spreading propaganda, or encouraging violence against specific individuals or groups.
• In 2021, Canada joined the United States and international partners in voicing concerns related to a Russian cyber-espionage campaign that exploited the SolarWinds Orion platform.
• You will understand that I cannot discuss specifics about the Solar Winds compromise, but I would say CSIS is seeing an increase in the exploitation of cyber tools to steal sensitive information, conduct ransomware attacks, and cause disruption.
• CSIS is also observing an increasing level of sophistication by malicious cyber actors.
• Let me use the opportunity to remind Canadians, individuals and companies, of the importance of adopting best practices recommended by industry as well as the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security.

Use of chemical weapons

• Russian state actors have also demonstrated a concerning willingness to use chemical weapons both domestically and abroad.
• As CSIS also noted in its 2020 Public Report, in August 2020, evidence indicates that Russian state threat actors used a nerve agent of the Novichok group to poison leading Russian opposition figure, Alexei Navalny.
• This attack contravened international norms prohibiting the use of chemical weapons and was strongly condemned by the Government of Canada.
• The event is also particularly troubling as it represents another instance of Russian state actors using chemical weapons to stifle dissent.
• The Government of Canada, in conjunction with its Allies, also condemned the use of Novichok – likely by officers from the Russian military intelligence service (the GRU) - in Salisbury, United Kingdom in March 2018.

Outreach and Stakeholder Engagement

Issue: How is CSIS engaging with external stakeholders, including on cyber threats?

Key Messages

• CSIS is committed to engaging with industry, academia, civil society, and communities.
• These efforts are focused on building bridges between CSIS and Canadians and supporting a common understanding of the national security threats we face.
• In order to better understand and combat the complex and evolving security threats we face today, in ways that maintain the trust and confidence of Canadians, we must engage directly with those whose interests it serves.
• CSIS engages with community leaders and members to better understand their concerns and to reinforce that there is no place in Canada for racial prejudice, discrimination and hate.
• These discussions provide an opportunity to affirm CSIS’ commitment to ensure the safety and security of all Canadians – and to seek input on how CSIS can build greater trust with racialized communities including through increased transparency.
• As our Director stated in his recent speech at UBC for Asian Heritage Month, there is no place in Canada for Islamophobia, Antisemitism, or hate in any form. It is categorically unacceptable and reprehensible.
• To this end, CSIS continues to engage with anti-racism and counter-radicalization groups, as well as those focused on addressing the social impacts of national security laws and policies on racialized communities.
• These efforts are aimed at listening to and better understanding the communities that CSIS serves.
• CSIS has offered briefings to community groups on topics, including Ideologically Motivated Violent Extremism and foreign interference.
• This foundational trust is imperative, and helps CSIS to foster the relationships needed to better protect the communities that are directly targeted by threats including violent extremism, foreign interference and espionage.

CSIS Screening

Issue: What is CSIS’ security screening mandate? What are the different screening authorities under the CSIS Act? What is CSIS’ role in advising Government on security assessments?

Key Messages

• CSIS’ security screening program is Canada’s first line of defence against terrorism, extremism, espionage, and proliferation.
• Upon request from other departments, CSIS’ security screening mandate supports government clearance processes and immigration-related security screening.
• High standards are applied across the board to support the integrity of these processes and to prevent national security threats from materializing.
• Though it supports an important element of the decision-making process, I must emphasize that CSIS provides advice to requesting departments; it does not make the decision on whether to grant, deny or revoke a security clearance, nor does it determine an individual’s eligibility or admissibility to Canada.

On Government security screening

• Under its mandate for Government Security Screening, CSIS provides security assessments on individuals who seek employment with the Government of Canada. This advice may also be provided to some provincial governments and other organizations, when employment requires individuals to have access to classified information or sensitive sites.
• Under reciprocal screening agreements, CSIS also provides security assessments to foreign governments, agencies and international organizations on Canadians seeking to reside and work in another country.
• On request, CSIS, in conjunction with other federal partners, conducts security checks of elected officials who are being considered for appointment as ministers, parliamentary secretaries and all Order in Council appointments.

On recourse when a clearance is denied or revoked

• Individuals who have been denied a clearance or have had their clearance revoked can make a complaint to the National Security and Intelligence Review Agency.
• CSIS fully participates in the complaints process.

If pressed on specific complaints:

• I cannot comment on specific complaints, due to privacy concerns and to the nature of the proceedings.

Modernizing CSIS Authorities

Issue: What changes are necessary to CSIS’ authorities, and why?

Key Messages

• As you may know, the CSIS Act benefited from some much needed updating through the passage of the National Security Act, 2017 (Bill C-59). I thank Parliament for its support in achieving this much needed revision to our legislation.
• CSIS’ authorities need to continue to remain current so that we are able to address the challenges of the significantly more complex legal, operational and technological environment in which we operate.
• For example, our Act sets technological limitations on intelligence collection that were not foreseen by the drafters of the legislation in 1984 and limit our investigations in a modern era.
• We need laws that enable data-driven investigations, carefully constructed to reflect the values we share in our democracy, including robust privacy protections.
• At the same time, what the COVID-19 pandemic has shown us is that threat actors will continue to exploit vulnerabilities – whether it’s stealing life-saving Canadian research or indoctrinating Canadians into conspiracy theories about the virus, public health measures and the vaccine.
• CSIS’ work throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has made it even clearer that the private sector's partnership in safeguarding national security is more important than ever.
• However, section 19 of the CSIS Act only allows us to provide unclassified threat overviews to external stakeholders.
• This is another example of the way in which the CSIS Act has not kept pace with the threats of today or our operational reality.
• Keeping pace on an ongoing basis with changes in the threat, technological and legal environment will ensure that we can continue to fulfill our mandate of keeping Canada and Canadians safe – and do so in a way that is consistent with Canada’s values and the trust that Canadians place in us.

On specific amendments

• These decisions are made at the political level and with support from our other Government of Canada partners both within the Public Safety Portfolio and with the Department of Justice.
• To be clear, the purpose of amending the Act would not be to lower safeguards, but rather to ensure CSIS has the authorities to provide timely, relevant advice in line with Government and Canadians’ expectations of their intelligence service.

Intelligence and Evidence

Key messages

• CSIS and the RCMP collect information for different purposes. Under its mandate, CSIS collects intelligence to advise the Government on national security threats, whereas the RCMP collects evidence to prosecute offences. Sharing intelligence to inform evidence collection presents unique challenges.
• While sensitive CSIS intelligence may be relevant to criminal investigations and legal proceedings, its use for those purposes carries risk, including CSIS’ ability to protect and recruit human sources and its relationships with partners.
• Recognizing the need for better operational collaboration, the RCMP and CSIS had proactively a third party conduct a review of intelligence and evidence issues, and since 2018, the agencies have implemented the 76 recommendations outlined by the Operational Improvement Review.
• This is a complex environment and addressing intelligence and evidence issues requires concerted efforts among a range of federal government departments including CSIS, the RCMP, Public Safety, the Department of Justice and the Public Prosecution Service of Canada.

CSIS Federal Court Decision (En Banc)

Issue: The Federal Court released its third ruling on the Canadian Security Intelligence Service’s (CSIS) duty of candour obligation on February 4, 2022.

Key Messages

• This is the ruling on the third and final warrant application that formed part of the En Banc matter. The Court determined that the warrant at issue could have been issued even if the information derived from potentially illegal activities was excluded.
• As I have stated since the first decision became public, protecting Canadians in a manner that is compliant with the law is something that CSIS is determined to uphold.
• Importantly, the issue raised by the En Banc decisions has now been addressed with the passage of the National Security Act 2017 , which provides CSIS with a limited just ification framework to conduct activities that would otherwise constitute offences.
• The potentially illegal activities involved in this case are, in fact, routine intelligence collection activities, used around the world by national security and law enfo rcement agencies to investigate terrorism and keep people safe, such as: paying a source for information, or providing a cell phone to a source to assist them in undertaking their work.
• CSIS has taken concrete steps to address the Court’s concerns, which include proactively commissioning reviews conducted by external partners to ensure that CSIS duties are conducted in accordance with the law.
• The Service has also taken concrete steps to improve organizational awareness. Additional training is being provi ded to employees to enhance internal understanding of CSIS’ role and its obligations to the Federal Court, the Government of Canada and Canadians.
• CSIS has also cooperated fully with the National Security and Intelligence Review Agency’s review requested by the Ministers of Public Safety and Justice.
• In addition to these measures, I would like to reiterate that CSIS works hard to protect our country and Canadians from a wide range of national security threats. The Court has acknowledged this and recognized that the consequences of failure are significant. At no time was the safety of Canadians at risk, nor were our rights and freedoms threatened.

Workplace Culture and Diversity & Inclusion

Issue: Is CSIS willing to recognize there is systemic racism in our society?

Key Messages

• CSIS is working to reflect the population it serves and is committed to increasing diversity in its workforce.
• I cannot comment on the class action currently before the Federal Court.
• But I can say that CSIS acknowledges that there are social and administrative structures and systems in place in our organization that result in – or fail to prevent – disadvantaging certain people or groups. This is systemic racism.
• As our Director has said numerous times, CSIS takes any allegation of inappropriate behaviour, including harassment and discrimination, very seriously. Over the past few years, in response to some serious allegations, we have been taking steps to ensure CSIS is a healthy and respectful work environment.
• CSIS is working hard to integrate strategies and approaches that help to reverse systemic barriers and broaden the organization’s understanding, appreciation, and valuing of diversity of all types. We are looking at our people, our systems and our culture to effect this change.
• For example, CSIS published its Code of Conduct on its public website for the first time. This is an important step in our commitment towards a healthy and respectful workplace, and signals our values to the public. It clearly articulates what is expected of employees and it has been built into the performance evaluations of every employee at all levels to ensure that the responsibility of creating a respectful workplace is shared.
• Each and every CSIS employee is responsible for ensuring that their actions, behaviours and decisions are inclusive and respectful and that any instances of exclusion, bias, or disrespect – systemic or otherwise – are addressed.
• Operationally, CSIS does not employ racial profiling. CSIS targets threats, not groups. Profiling is not only unethical but it also does nothing to further our mission and national security investigations.
• Simply put, systemic racism exists in Canada. It is something that cannot be tolerated within any part of Canada’s national institutions, including ours.

Workplace Climate

• Just like the people of Canada, we are a diverse and inclusive workforce. Our diversity allows us to better understand the demographics of the Canadian communities we protect and gives us better tools to collect relevant and accurate intelligence.
• The Director of CSIS is personally committed to working to ensure that CSIS is a workplace free from discrimination, bias, harassment, or bullying so that all employees come to work every day in a safe, healthy and respectful environment.
• Given the complexity of the current threat environment, I need to make sure all of my employees are at their best. And certainly in these challenging times, this is a growing organizational priority.
• I have made it clear that senior management will continue to be accountable in demonstrating leadership and commitment to building and sustaining a healthy workplace; the safety and security of our operations depend on this
• A safe and healthy workplace is a successful workplace and contributes to national security. We take the greatest pride in the exceptional quality of our workforce. Our people are CSIS’ most valuable resource.

Promotion of diversity and inclusion

• CSIS is taking deliberate steps to increase diversity and inclusion across the Service. That is why in 2019 CSIS established its Gender Based Analysis+ Unit (GBA+) to further ensure its policies and operations are bias-free and evidence-based.
• CSIS employees speak more than 117 languages and dialects, with 67% of employees speaking both official languages.
• CSIS’s workforce in 2021 was 49% female and 51% male.
• In 2021, 19% of CSIS employees identified themselves as Visible Minorities, 2% as indigenous and 5% as persons with disabilities.
• CSIS is launching a new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategy for our organization. This strategy was the result of considerable review and consideration of systemic barriers, discrimination, and racism in the organization and was co-developed with employees. It includes a concrete action plan with measurable objectives and timelines as well as steps to ensure accountability and transparency in implementation.
• CSIS recently launched an Intelligence Officer recruitment campaign aimed at increasing representation amongst employment equity groups and focusing recruitment efforts across Canada to draw on talent pools outside of the National Capital Region.
• Other steps include numerous targeted initiatives intended to increase overall representation of diverse groups in the Service, address gaps in specific occupational categories, and establish and entrench expectations for a bias-free, respectful organization.
• CSIS also works proactively with employment equity groups, fosters mentorship programs internally to support diverse employees in preparing for competitions, and has a diverse Talent Acquisition and Student Hiring team, with resources dedicated to ensuring diversity. We are in the midst of building a new, comprehensive and multi-year Diversity and Inclusion Strategy as well as an Accessibility Strategy that are both built on research and consultations with employees.
• As an agency, we are committed to working to ensure that CSIS’ workplace is free from discrimination, bias, harassment, or bullying so that all employees come to work every day in a safe, healthy and respectful environment.
• To this end, the task of creating a respectful workplace has been built into the performance evaluations of each and every employee and CSIS has revised its Code of Conduct to clearly outline expectations. Comprehensive training equips employees to meet these requirements.

Actions taken

• As a result of the 2017 Toronto Region Workplace Climate Assessment, I can say emphatically that we have made improvements to our internal processes, so that all our employees come to work every day in a safe, healthy and respectful environment.
• That is why I have taken concrete steps to strengthen the cultural values of our workplace, this includes:
  • Adding enhanced mandatory training for supervisors and a common performance objective for all CSIS employees and executives on promoting a healthy workplace,
  • Launching The Respect Campaign to re-enforce the importance of respect in our working relationships,
  • Renewing our Code of Conduct and making it a condition of employment, and
  • Holding numerous informal meetings and town halls at our offices across the country to discuss any concerns employees may have about their workplace climate.
• Our employees are always encouraged to report incidents of harassment, discrimination, or bullying without fear of reprisal and all of our managers are required to act promptly on any issues brought to their attention, and if necessary, request a formal investigation.
• Our renewed leadership training for managers is focused on fostering the right competencies to ensure strong supervisory and people management skills at all levels, and to ensure managers exhibit the Service’s values and ethics through all of their actions and behaviour.
• CSIS will continue to ensure that the behaviour of all employees reflects our Code of Conduct which includes respect for people, democracy, integrity, stewardship and professional excellence.
• As the trust of Canadians is essential in order for CSIS to fulfill its mandate, I am committed to keeping Canadians informed on our progress to address these issues.