The government is considering imposing fines of up to $1 million on individuals and organizations who do not adhere to the rules of the forthcoming foreign influence transparency registry. New draft regulations, recently made public, mark a crucial advancement in establishing this registry, which was mandated by legislation passed in 2024 to combat foreign interference.
The proposed regulations outline key terms and specify the information that must be provided by individuals and entities engaging with foreign principals—entities controlled by foreign governments—in influencing Canadian political or government affairs. According to Ottawa, the registry is essential to address potential undisclosed ties of individuals working on behalf of foreign countries to further political objectives through foreign interference.
Various entities, including individuals, businesses, non-profits, and educational institutions, will be required to register with the federal government to mitigate such activities. The public registry will contain details about participants, foreign principals, and the nature of their agreements, including the intended purpose and types of influence activities.
An independent commissioner, yet to be appointed, will manage the registration process, enforced through notifications, fines, and, in severe cases, criminal repercussions. The proposed regulations aim to provide Canadians with a transparent tool to monitor foreign influence, ensuring visibility and appropriate action against such activities.
Canada anticipates around 1,767 submissions annually, with 54 new registrants each year. The country acknowledges lagging behind key allies in implementing dedicated legislation to counter covert foreign influence. The regulations seek to bridge this gap by aligning with international standards, bolstering Canada’s credibility in global security and safeguarding democratic institutions.
Violations under the regime may include failure to disclose information promptly after engaging with a foreign principal or providing false details. Proposed penalties range from $50 to $1 million, assessed based on compliance history, intent, financial capacity, and cooperation with the commissioner. Compliance agreements could lead to reduced or waived penalties if specified conditions are met within a set timeframe.
Public Safety Canada engaged with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society organizations, and national security experts, to shape the regulations. The public has 30 days to offer feedback on the proposed rules, published in the Canada Gazette.