Canada has introduced the Online Harms Act legislation designed to hold tech platforms accountable for harmful content across various digital platforms.

The bill, unveiled by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government, targets seven categories of harmful content, including child sexualization and hate speech.

Under the proposed law, Canadians can demand the swift removal of problematic posts – typically within 24 hours after submission, pending review – and enable them to report individuals disseminating hateful language through a human rights tribunal.

Details of the Proposed Online Harms Act Bill

The Online Harms Act encompasses additional measures like establishing a new Digital Safety Commission to oversee compliance with these standards and mandate tech platforms to implement protective features for minors, such as parental controls and safe search options.

“Web giants have failed to keep kids safe online,” stated Trudeau, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced protections, especially for young internet users.

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He added that the legislation aims to hold technology firms liable for hosting damaging content while preserving Canadians’ right to free expression.

The seven defined categories of harm in the legislation include the sharing of intimate content without consent, instigating hatred, incitement to violence or terrorism, direct incitement to violence, child bullying, and encouraging self-harm in children.

The bill faces parliamentary committee scrutiny and potential revisions in the Senate before becoming law.

Trudeau stressed the accountability of tech companies for the harmful content they host and the devastating consequences of their failures in safeguarding online spaces.

The Prime Minister while tabling the bill expressed that “Far too often, this (their failure) has had devastating consequences.”

The government, while respecting freedom of expression, highlighted the urgent need for improved safeguards, particularly for children, in the online environment.

Criticism Facing the Bill

However, the proposed legislation has encountered strong opposition from conservatives, with accusations that it infringes on Canadians’ freedom of expression.

Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre criticized Trudeau’s plans, questioning his definition of hate speech stating, “What does Justin Trudeau mean when he says… the word hate speech? He means speech he hates.”

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In response, Trudeau maintained that the government is merely seeking to ensure a secure online space where individuals may communicate openly without fearing threats to their wellbeing.

Canada’s move aligns with similar legislation in Western countries, including the UK’s Online Safety Law, the EU’s Digital Services Act, and content moderation laws in certain US states like Florida and Texas.

The bill’s progression involves committee examination and potential revisions in the Senate before enactment.