Canada is on track to appoint its inaugural foreign interference commissioner. Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree has informed recognized opposition parties and Senate groups about the government’s selection for the role.
Anandasangaree anticipates revealing the chosen commissioner shortly, stating, “I’m hoping by next week or two. There is a name that we have proposed and we are looking for feedback before we make the appointment.”
Enacted in 2024, the foreign interference legislation mandates consulting opposition parties before officially designating a candidate, to be known as the foreign influence transparency commissioner. Anandasangaree refrained from disclosing the candidate’s name but described them as a person of exceptional caliber and integrity, who has served the country admirably for many years.
The creation of the foreign interference commissioner position and a registry for foreign agents working in Canada was approved by Parliament eighteen months ago. Anandasangaree dismissed speculations of delay to avoid upsetting China, emphasizing that the process began promptly upon Parliament’s return.
Recent investigations have highlighted Chinese transnational repression in Canada, with evidence pointing to China’s active involvement in foreign interference targeting Canadian institutions. Anandasangaree’s statements come following a report by Justice Marie-Josée Hogue, labeling transnational repression by the People’s Republic of China as a significant concern.
Moreover, a global investigation by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists revealed China’s escalating audacity in targeting dissidents who oppose its official stances on various issues. The cases documented involve individuals critical of China’s positions on matters such as democracy in Hong Kong, treatment of Uyghurs, Tibetan freedom, the Falun Gong, and Taiwanese independence.
