A person enters the Public Inquiry Into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes and Democratic Institutions as it begins hearings in Ottawa, Monday, Jan. 29, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld
What the foreign interference inquiry has to say about foreign election meddling
OTTAWA - A public inquiry into allegations of foreign meddling in Canada’s last two elections released its preliminary findings Friday, and concluded attempts to interfere did not impact the integrity of the 2021 and 2019 votes.
OTTAWA - A public inquiry into allegations of foreign meddling in Canada’s last two elections released its preliminary findings Friday, and concluded attempts to interfere did not impact the integrity of the 2021 and 2019 votes.
− Did foreign interference impact any election results at a riding level?
This is a more difficult question to answer. It is possible that results in a small number of ridings were affected, but this cannot be said with certainty.
− Did foreign interference nevertheless impact the broader electoral ecosystem?
It did. Regardless of impact on specific election results, all foreign interference impacts the right of Canadians to have their electoral processes and democratic institutions free from covert influence, and their right to vote freely and in an informed manner.
− Did foreign interference undermine public confidence in Canadian Democracy?
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Regrettably, the answer is yes. This is perhaps the greatest harm Canada has suffered as a result of foreign interference.
− Did foreign interference impact everyone equally?
It did not. The means and methods of foreign interference harm diaspora communities in Canada in distinct ways. Their experiences must not be ignored, and specific attention shall be given to them
This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2024.
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