Canada's Proposed Foreign Influence Transparency Registry

As foreign interference with the democratic process of nations becomes an increasing concern around the globe, governments are taking steps to curb subversive and clandestine activities by external actors. In Canada, Ottawa has drafted legislation, Bill C-70, An Act respecting countering foreign interference (introduced on May 6, 2024, and completed second reading on May 29, 2024), which, if passed, will enact several measures to counter foreign interference aimed at all levels of government, the private sector, academia, diaspora communities, and the general public.

Part 4 of Bill C-70 would enact the Foreign Influence Transparency and Accountability Act (the "Act"). The proposed Act pertains to the provision and registration of certain information in relation to "arrangements" (as defined below) with "foreign principals" (as defined below) by "persons" (as defined below) on behalf of foreign principals to carry out activities in relation to a "political or