Bill C-63 The Online Harms Act.

Recently, Justice Minister Arif Virani presented Bill C-63, a comprehensive legislative proposal primarily aimed at overseeing the response of social media platforms to harmful online content. The Online Harms Act, a significant component of the bill, is directed at addressing egregious content that targets minors, shares intimate images without consent, propagates hatred, or encourages violence, terrorism, or extremism.

The intentions behind the Trudeau government’s Bill C-63, which targets online child exploitation and revenge porn, appear commendable. However, according to Runkle, a legal expert in civil liberties and host of the Runkle of the Bailey YouTube channel, the breadth of the Online Harms Act within the bill raises concerns. Runkle suggests that it might inadvertently lead to the censorship of popular streaming content. Furthermore, Runkle warns Brian Lilley that the legislation introduces stringent penalties and powers against ideas deemed harmful, which are susceptible to abuse. Such measures could compel platforms to proactively restrict Canadians’ speech, including that of individuals. (Recorded on March 6, 2024.)