Event Background
According to Canada’s Foreign Interference Commissioner, misinformation and disinformation pose the single greatest threat to Canadian democracy today, an ongoing problem that has been amplified in recent years by emerging technologies, shifting socio-economic trends, and polarizing political shifts.
To better understand the scale of misinformation in Canada, Evidence for Democracy’s launched its latest report, which highlights the evolution of misinformation across Canada, and provides important policy recommendations for addressing misinformation challenges and concerns.
On 24 February, join Evidence for Democracy’s expert panel for a discussion exploring how the rapid spread of misinformation has undermined public trust, and impacted across sectors and communities.
Whether you are a research, policymaker, or engaged citizen, this panel will help equip you with the insights and tools needed to fight misinformation and protect our democracy.
Join us on 24 February to take part in this conversation!
Target Audience
Academics, researchers, policymakers, parliamentarians, staffers, students, advocacy groups, and members of the public.
Location
Online via Zoom.
When?
- Tuesday Feb 24, 2026 from 12-1pm EST.
Objectives
- The objective of this event is to provide a collaborative space for participants to discuss the pressing issue of misinformation in Canada.
- Objectives will include:
- Showcasing recent spread of misinformation in Canada
- Exploring the potential impacts of misinformation on Canadian democracy
- Discussing the implications of the spread of disinformation through targeted foreign interference campaigns and rapid growth in AI-driven misinformation
- Developing strategies to safeguard democratic institutions and rebuild public trust
Agenda
| Agenda Item | Time | Description |
| 1. Welcome & Introduction | 12-12:05pm | E4D and Partners welcome participants, outline the agenda. |
| 2. Report Overview | 12:05-12:15pm | Director of Research and Policy gives an overview of the report. |
| 3. Panel Discussion | 12:15-12:50pm | Panel Session moderated by E4D Executive Director |
| 4. Closing Remarks | 12:50-1pm | Closing remarks by E4D and Partners |
Panellists
Dr Heidi Tworek is a Canada Research Chair and Professor of History and Public Policy at the University of British Columbia, as well as the Director of the Centre for the Study of Democratic Institutions. She is also a Senior Fellow at the Centre for International Governance Innovation, and is a fellow of the Royal Historical Society and the Royal Society of Canada’s New College of Scholars, Artists and Scientists. Her research explores the intersections of media, democracy, and international relations, with a focus on how information ecosystems shape governance and public trust. Dr. Tworek frequently advises governments and international organizations on digital policy and democratic resilience.
Valérie Kindarji is the Coordinator of the Digital Transparency Centre at the University of British Columbia, and is a Doctoral Researcher at the University of Toronto. Through her leadership at the Centre, Valérie advances collaborative research and policy dialogue aimed at strengthening public oversight and trust in digital platforms. Valérie’s research focuses on the effects of disinformation on democracy in North America, Scandinavia, and the Baltics – specifically looking at how disinformation impacts democratic institutions and processes, and how democracies respond to these growing threats.
Jessica Johnson is an independent Journalist and Adjunct Professor in Journalism and Media Studies at the University of Toronto. With a background in longform media and editorial leadership, she has reported extensively on politics, culture, and technology in Canada, having recently completed a two-year research project on public service media as a senior fellow at the Centre for Media, Technology, and Democracy at McGill University. Jessica brings expertise in narrative journalism and media ethics to her teaching and public commentary on misinformation and truth in the digital age.
Matthew Johnson is the Director of Education at MediaSmarts. He develops educational programs and national campaigns that empower Canadians to think critically about online information and media influence. With decades of experience in media education, Matthew is a recognized advocate for equipping youth and adults with the skills to navigate misinformation and build digital resilience.
