Scientific research is collaborative by its very nature. An increase in international exchanges and research partnerships has led to major advances for Canadian science. However, the internationalization of research is not without risk. Some foreign powers seek to take advantage of scientific research conducted in Canada. The actions of certain countries, including the People’s Republic of China, constitute a threat for research security and national security in Canada.

Certain research areas are particularly sensitive, as they may have military applications. Some foreign powers seek to take advantage of research partnerships with scientists from Canada to acquire knowledge in these sensitive areas. International research partnerships may also result in intellectual property being transferred to other countries, either legally or illegally. Foreign interference within universities and on campuses is another growing threat.

While these threats do not all come from a single country, witnesses said that the People’s Republic of China is the most active nation in this regard. As a result, the House of Commons Standing Committee on Science and Research carried out a study on the use of federal government research and development grants, funds, and contributions by Canadian universities and research institutions in partnerships with entities connected to the People’s Republic of China.

The witnesses who appeared before the Committee provided an update on the issue of research security in Canada and on the threats faced by research stakeholders. The Committee considered measures taken by other countries, the role of universities, and initiatives taken by the federal government. In particular, the Committee examined the National Security Guidelines for Research Partnerships published in 2021 and their implementation.

The testimony on which this report is based was given before the 16 January 2024 announcement by the Government of Canada of new measures to safeguard research, including a Policy on Sensitive Technology Research and Affiliations of Concern, supported by the publication of a list of sensitive technology research areas and a list of named research organizations. However, the evidence provided by the witnesses remains very relevant. It sheds light on research security in Canada and what threatens it. The evidence also highlights the concerns of stakeholders in the research ecosystem with regard to these threats. Lastly, the evidence helps clarify the government’s approach to this topic.

Based on the evidence compiled, the Committee made eight recommendations to the Government of Canada.