The Canadian government is set to unveil new legislation on Friday that would criminalize the deliberate promotion of hatred against identifiable groups in public using specific hate- or terrorism-related symbols, such as swastikas, according to sources familiar with the matter. The proposed changes extend to symbols linked to terrorist organizations listed in Canada, including the Proud Boys, Hamas, and Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
If the legislation is approved, it would prohibit individuals from inciting hatred against Jewish communities through the display of Hamas flags or swastika imagery near a synagogue. This move aligns with the government’s commitment to combat the surge in hate crimes across Canada, particularly targeting antisemitism and Islamophobia. Criticism from the Conservative Party has highlighted the government’s perceived inaction despite repeated requests for assistance from affected communities over the past two years.
Jewish and Muslim advocacy groups have expressed frustration over the delayed implementation of additional protective measures following a notable increase in violent incidents, vandalism, and hate-motivated attacks against their institutions. Reported offenses range from shootings and fires to vandalism and intimidation at mosques, synagogues, and churches. Statistics Canada reported a significant rise in police-recorded hate crimes nationwide, reaching 4,882 incidents in 2024 compared to 2,646 in 2020.
Details revealed by CBC News indicate that the impending legislation also aims to streamline the process of prosecuting individuals involved in hate propaganda, eliminating bureaucratic obstacles that hinder the legal proceedings. The proposed changes include removing the requirement for provincial attorney general approval to file charges related to hate propaganda offenses, such as advocating genocide and inciting hatred.
The bill’s potential impact on Charter rights, particularly freedom of thought and expression, has raised concerns about its constitutionality. Justice Minister and Attorney General Sean Fraser emphasized the government’s commitment to balancing free speech with public safety, citing guidance from the Supreme Court in navigating this delicate balance.
The National Council of Canadian Muslims has emphasized the importance of striking a balance between preventing harassment and safeguarding the right to peaceful protest. Recent incidents, such as the arrest of an individual for threatening a mosque and a Muslim family in Ontario, have underscored the urgent need for legislative action to address hate-motivated crimes.
While stakeholders like the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs have welcomed the proposed legislation as a positive step, they urge the government to enforce existing laws, address legislative gaps, and enhance security measures for vulnerable communities. The Conservative Party has indicated its intent to review the bill once it is formally introduced, criticizing the Liberal government for perceived delays in addressing hate-related issues.