Could Canada be at risk of foreign interference?

Canada is facing mounting allegations of foreign interference, including election-meddling by China, an Indian-backed assassination plot, and harassment of Iranian dissidents. Conservative politician Michael Chong testified before US lawmakers about his experience as a target of Beijing after speaking out against China's human rights record. He claims that after his remarks, a Chinese official in Canada gathered information about his relatives in Hong Kong and launched a smear campaign against him on social media platform WeChat. Chong's case, which came to light through leaked intelligence reports, sparked a debate in Canada about its vulnerability to foreign interference. A public inquiry has been established to investigate Beijing's alleged meddling in the country's previous federal elections. Experts argue that the issue of foreign meddling in Canada extends beyond election interference and requires a restructuring of the country's approach to national security. The outdated laws governing the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) are seen as a particular problem, limiting the agency's ability to share information and leaving potential targets unaware of threats against them. Canada's geographical isolation has historically offered some protection from foreign threats, but experts argue that the country must adopt measures, such as the establishment of a registry of foreign agents and laws criminalizing interference, to better address the issue. Canada's diverse population also makes it a convenient target for foreign states, particularly diaspora groups opposed to their country of origin's government. Dissidents from countries like Iran have reported harassment and threats within Canadian communities, but reporting such incidents to law enforcement agencies has proven challenging. The public inquiry into foreign interference will be conducted in two phases, with a final report and recommendations expected in December. However, concerns have been raised about the scope of the inquiry and whether its recommendations will be implemented effectively. Urgent action is believed to be necessary to address both election interference and the intimidation of diaspora communities in Canada.