Foreign interference can refer to a range of deliberately covert, malicious, clandestine and deceptive hostile activities orchestrated by a foreign state to further its strategic interests. Foreign interference activities are often contrary to the values and interests of the targeted country, threatening many sectors in democratic societies. Canada is not immune to foreign interference.

In this report, the Committee examines various aspects of foreign interference. It outlines the targets and tactics of foreign interference with a certain focus on those used by two countries: the People’s Republic of China and Russia. The report also raises a number of issues related to foreign interference, including the rise of xenophobia, illicit disclosures of national security intelligence, and the risks of technological advances. In addition, the Committee presents a case study concerning allegations of foreign interference through a donation to the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation.

The report then summarizes the measures suggested by witnesses to counter foreign interference in Canada. These include legislative proposals and the creation of a foreign agent registry.

In light of the evidence, the Committee makes recommendations to improve Canada’s response to foreign interference activities, enhance government transparency in matters of national security, and restore Canadians’ trust in democratic institutions.