Charities And Political Activities

The past year has seen no shortage of articles suggesting that the Canada Revenue Agency ("CRA") selectively targets charities that engage in political activities.  Many of these articles suggest it is unfair that charities cannot engage in political activities to the extent of other unregistered entities, calling Canadian charity law archaic or outdated.  Although the Canadian legal system as it pertains to charity law is not perfect, there are sound reasons behind the mechanisms which it chooses to employ and some options available for charities wishing to engage in some political activities. 

Reasons for Limiting Political Activities

The courts have historically limited the objects that an organization can undertake to qualify as a charity.  These include relief of poverty, advancement of education, advancement of religion, or certain other purposes beneficial to the community.