During this period, although the media enjoyed more significant guarantees and protections than in other parts of the world, there were some subtle restrictions on journalists' access to sensitive areas under government control, such as on issues of immigration, protection of indigenous peoples, and labor disputes.
Following an appeal by the Canadian Civil Liberties Association, the Supreme Court reaffirmed the importance of the "Open Court Principle" in a case involving the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) and a whistleblower's identity. In its decision, the Court rejected the notion of a "secret trial." It stated that it is "fundamental to supporting the administration of justice impartially, fairly, and by the rule of law." Under the open court procedure, a judge has the discretion to implement measures to protect the informant's privilege but must also preserve the principle of freedom of information.
In terms of freedom of expression, there were incidents in 2024.
Citizens have expressed concerns about laws related to the administration of elections. Transparency issues persist, affecting access to information and government accountability. There are concerns about restrictions on press access to prisons. There has been discussion about restrictions on public employees to wear religious symbols. A pattern of police intimidation of journalists has emerged this year despite protections for freedom of expression under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
In other developments, Sûreté du Québec officials in Val-d'Or, Quebec, sued Radio-Canada and journalist Josée Dupuis for defamation.
Despite respect for political rights and civil liberties, incidents were recorded at pro-Palestinian student protests.
On April 15, journalist Savanna Craig was on her way to a Scotiabank branch in downtown Montreal to cover a pro-Palestinian protest. Police arrived at the scene in riot gear and arrested the journalist along with 44 protesters.
The Online News Act, which requires technology giants to compensate media outlets for journalistic content, remains in force. Meta did not adhere to the law, and Google committed an annual payment of US$100 million to the media.
