Defending democracies from disinformation: A new imperative for Canada-Japan strategic cooperation

Canada has begun placing greater emphasis on security in the Indo-Pacific, including greater recognition of the threat posed by China. Chinese influence operations and possible disinformation campaigns are increasingly viewed with concern. Although perhaps a less serious problem than faced by countries like the US or Taiwan, Canada remains vulnerable to such foreign disinformation efforts.

International cooperation is needed to fight against foreign disinformation. Canada has shown its willingness to cooperate with key allies, including G7 countries and its partners in the Indo-Pacific, to combat the spread of disinformation. Japan, which is Canada’s only G7 partner in the Indo-Pacific, will be hosting a G7 summit under its presidency in Hiroshima in 2023. As such, Canada-Japan cooperation against disinformation could be further increased between the two countries.

The Macdonald-Laurier Institute, with the support of the Japan Foundation Toronto and in cooperation with the Embassy of Japan, will convene a group of experts to examine the current state of disinformation threats and countermeasures/ practices in Canada and Japan. The panel will also discuss the potential for Canada-Japan cooperation in fighting against potential disinformation campaigns.

Register for this webinar below.