Digital control slipping away from Canada according to industry specialists
In a manifesto dated Tuesday, a group of Canadian lawmakers and advocacy organizations have called on Prime Minister Mark Carney to rethink his stance on digital policies and border security. The manifesto, signed by renowned Canadian author Margaret Atwood and University of Montreal professor Pierre Trudel, among others, addresses several key issues.
Firstly, the authors criticize the decision to abolish the digital services tax, which was justified by the need to facilitate a trade agreement with US President Donald Trump. They argue that this move could lead to Canada becoming increasingly reliant on American tech giants, potentially compromising digital sovereignty and privacy.
The authors describe Bill C-2, the omnibus bill aiming for rigorous border security, as "deeply flawed and contrary to privacy". Certain sections of the bill would grant unprecedented powers to police forces to obtain certain information about Canadians without a warrant, raising concerns about civil liberties.
The manifesto demands effective AI regulation, the establishment of an independent national observatory for digital governance, and the adoption of a legislative framework for sovereignty before taking on international commitments. The authors warn that the United States under the Trump presidency has become increasingly unreliable, more authoritarian, and out of step with liberal democracies around the world.
The call for action comes amidst growing concerns about the impact of internal trade barriers on the economy. The Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives estimates that these barriers will only modestly contribute to stimulating the economy.
Meanwhile, the issue of border security has been a contentious one. The bill, Bill C-2, is presented as necessary to strengthen the border. However, critics argue that it infringes on privacy and civil liberties.
In other news, Scale AI announced Thursday the initiatives retained in its latest funding round for AI projects in Quebec companies. The announcement comes as the debate over AI regulation continues to heat up.
Tragically, Isabelle Vaillancourt, the general director of Publications BLD, passed away on Sunday. Vaillancourt was a respected figure in the journalism community and will be missed.
Our site, the media outlet, provides insights to better understand the news from here and abroad. Support for the site ensures the longevity of independent, demanding, and committed journalism.
