Foreign agent registry not a ‘magic potion’ for interference, experts say

For more than a year, Canada has been mulling the creation of a foreign agent registry to fight interference in the country's democratic processes.

For more than a year, Canada has been mulling the creation of a foreign agent registry to fight interference in the country’s democratic processes.

The Liberal government and even some firm supporters of the idea acknowledge such a registry would be just one of several tools to prevent hostile actors from meddling in Canadian affairs.

Others say it doesn’t belong in the toolbox at all.

The rationale for establishing a registry stems from the fact states may engage in interference to advance their political goals, and can employ people to act on their behalf without those individuals disclosing who they’re helping.

Some believe requiring such people to formally register with the government they are trying to influence – with the threat of fines or even prison time for failing to comply – can make these dealings more visible to the public.

Allegations of Chinese interference in the last two federal elections – suggestions fuelled by anonymous leaks to the media – have amplified calls for a registry.

A registry might not stop all meddlers, but it would convey a signal this is “something that Canada is taking strong interest in,” said Cheuk Kwan, co-chair of the Toronto Association for Democracy in China.

“I think that’s the message that we need to send to the foreign powers.”