Canada’s foreign influence registry is now active. Here’s how it works

Canada’s long-awaited foreign influence registry became active on Tuesday, with a broad mandate of who’s required to log their activities. The registry will be overseen by foreign influence transparency commissioner Anton Boegman, whose independent office is responsible for ensuring compliance and issuing penalties as high as $1 million.“The establishment of a public registry of foreign influence activities strengthens transparency, accountability and public trust,” Boegman said in a government statement.“By making information about foreign influence activities openly available, we are empowering Canadians with greater insight into how influence is exercised, on whose behalf, and how public decision-making may be shaped, while strengthening confidence in our democratic institutions.”Ottawa passed legislation in 2024 to establish the registry after multiple media reports — including by Global News — exposed gaps in how the federal government combats foreign interference in elections and Canadian society, particularly from China. Story continues below advertisement As the registry finally takes effect, here’s what to know about it and whether you need to sign up. Who's required to re...