On January 16, the Macdonald-Laurier Institute hosted a discussion, in collaboration with the Montreal Institute for Global Security, on the growing impact of online disinformation and digital transnational repression on Canadian democracy, social cohesion, and diaspora communities.
This discussion, part of the Canadian Digital Defenders Collective (an initiative supported by the Department of Canadian Heritage), was moderated by Transatlantic Program Director Dr. Balkan Devlen and brought together leading experts to examine how malign actors exploit digital tools to spread disinformation, suppress dissent, and undermine trust in institutions.
Key Insights from the Panel:
- Katherine Leung (Policy Advisor, Hong Kong Watch) highlighted how authoritarian regimes use digital repression to target diaspora communities, citing case studies from Hong Kong.
- John Packer (Director of the Human Rights Research and Education Centre, University of Ottawa) emphasized the legal and human rights dimensions of countering transnational digital threats while preserving civil liberties.
- Daniel Stanton (Director, National Security Program) analyzed the national security implications of disinformation campaigns and Canada’s preparedness to respond.
- Phil Gurski (President and CEO, Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting) outlined practical strategies for building societal resilience against online manipulation.
