In a historic move, the Canadian government has taken a significant step towards transparency in its national security efforts. On September 19, 2024, the Government of Canada unveiled its inaugural public document detailing the country’s intelligence priorities, a vital step in safeguarding both the security and prosperity of Canada and its citizens. This marks the first time such a comprehensive overview has been made available to the public, reflecting the government’s commitment to keeping Canadians informed about the measures being taken to protect national interests.
Key figures in this release include the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs; the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence; and the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs. Together, they presented this groundbreaking document, which lays out the strategic objectives guiding Canada’s intelligence community through 2025.
“Awareness can play a big role in better protecting Canadians from national security threats. Whether it’s knowing who the biggest strategic cyber threats to Canada are or understanding the intent of our adversaries, the national security community is working to ensure Canadians know what to watch for. Publishing our Intelligence Priorities will lead to a better overall understanding of the threat environment, and that’s a vital part of protecting the country,” explained the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence.
The publication offers a detailed look at how intelligence priorities are determined, the roles and responsibilities within Canada’s core intelligence organizations, and the process through which they gather, analyze, and share crucial information. While the intelligence community operates under strict security protocols to protect sensitive data and methods, this document gives the public an unprecedented glimpse into the nation’s security framework, without jeopardizing Canada’s safety.
“We live in an uncertain world, challenged by complex national security issues. The release of Canada’s Intelligence Priorities is an important step that will allow Canadians to be better informed about the Government’s work in the protection of our national security,” said the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Despite the inherent need for secrecy in much of the intelligence world, the government is making strides to ensure that national security-related information is more accessible to Canadians. The unclassified intelligence priorities are now available, representing a careful balance between transparency and the protection of operational integrity.
“Every day, our national security departments and agencies work tirelessly to protect our country and those who live here. While this work often includes sensitive and classified information, it is critical that we are transparent about how we do this work and why it is necessary, so that Canadians better understand the national security issues that impact them the most,” expressed the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions, and Intergovernmental Affairs.
In releasing these priorities, the Government of Canada reiterates its dedication to working alongside citizens, review bodies, and oversight organizations to enhance public understanding of intelligence operations. Moving forward, this initiative will foster greater awareness of how Canada’s intelligence efforts contribute to the safety and security of the nation.
“The release of Canada’s Intelligence Priorities is consistent with the Government of Canada’s commitment to transparency in national security and intelligence. It’s also an important step in addressing recommendations, from Canadian security and intelligence stakeholders and review bodies, about the importance of communicating about the intelligence community and the processes by which it is governed,” commented Nathalie G. Drouin, Deputy Clerk of the Privy Council and National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Prime Minister.