Freedom of the Press
The Issue
While freedom of the press is protected by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, it is in serious jeopardy. The business model that has sustained the media is failing – resulting in a significant loss of professional journalists and a serious decline in the media’s capacity to do the investigative reporting that is critical for public knowledge and government and corporate accountability. The work of the media in Canada is also imperilled by weak access-to-information laws, court publication bans, vexatious defamation claims, and the chilling effects of mass surveillance.
Why It Matters
Democracy depends on an independent, uncensored, diverse, professional media to inform the public, to ask difficult questions, and to foster transparency and accountability in those who wield power.
Our Work
The Centre for Free Expression promotes public discussion of the importance of freedom of the press, challenges facing the institutional media, and the opportunities and limitations of social media as an alternative. It works in collaboration with journalists, media organizations and public interest groups to evaluate models for the sustainability of independent, adequately financed, investigative journalism, to press for better access-to-information legislation, to limit publication bans and to strengthen protections for free expression.
Resources
Government Funding of Journalism
Can freedom of the press survive government funding of journalism?
BPC Bulletin: Justin Brake Scores a Victory in Court
May 13, 2019 - In Newfoundland and Labrador, the Court of Appeal recently dismissed a civil charge of contempt against Justin Brake, a journalist.
Government Funding of Journalism
Can freedom of the press survive government funding of journalism?
Defunding Difference and Dissent on Campus: Why Should Canadians Care?
Ontario Premier Ford claims to be a champion of free speech but is undermining the ability of students to be heard.
Defunding Difference and Dissent on Campus: Why Should Canadians Care?
Panelists: Len Findlay, Nour Alideeb
Moderator: James L.Turk