Canada's Online Harms Act Faces Backlash Over Speech Criminalization

Critics label the bill 'Orwellian,' raising concerns about free speech and potential misuse.

The Online Harms Act, introduced by Justice Minister Arif Virani in February, has sparked controversy over its potential to criminalize speech and impose life imprisonment for advocating genocide.
Critics, including Margaret Atwood, have labeled the bill 'Orwellian' and expressed concerns over its implications for free speech and the potential for misuse through false accusations.
The bill aims to regulate online platforms to protect Canadians from harmful content, including child victimization, bullying, and hate speech, but has been criticized for government overreach.
If passed, the bill could impose severe penalties on individuals and social media companies, including life imprisonment and fines up to 6% of global revenue for non-compliance.
Despite the Trudeau government's support, the bill has faced backlash for its approach to regulating speech, with comparisons made to dystopian scenarios and concerns about the impact on free expression.