Canadian Armed Forces Eliminates Definition of ‘Sexual Misconduct’ to Align with Criminal Code

June 28, 2024 TruthUSA

Defence Minister Bill Blair announces changes in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) to bring about a cultural shift in the military. The term “sexual misconduct” is being replaced with “conduct deficiencies of a sexual nature,” “harassment of a sexual nature,” and “crimes of a sexual nature.” Additionally, “sexual assault” will be established as a standalone definition referring to the Criminal Code.

“Today’s steps reaffirm our commitment to meaningful culture change,” stated Mr. Blair on June 27 in a statement.

These changes stem from recommendations put forth by former Supreme Court Justice Louise Arbour in her 2022 report, where she addressed issues of harassment and sexual misconduct in the CAF. Ms. Arbour recommended repealing the regulations surrounding the reporting of sexual misconduct allegations to prevent victims from losing control over the reporting process.

Ms. Arbour also recommended changes in legislation regarding how sexual offences are handled. Mr. Blair introduced Bill C-66 in March to remove the jurisdiction of court martial and the investigative authority from the CAF in these cases.

In an effort to attract and retain talented individuals from across the country, the government aims to build a diverse and inclusive military institution. These measures align with the ongoing culture change efforts, as outlined by Mr. Blair in announcing the legislation.

Furthermore, a plan has been released to implement recommendations from external reviews on topics like the National Defence Act and systemic racism and discrimination. The current implementation of the new Culture Evolution Strategy is also part of the military overhaul efforts.

As reported by The Epoch Times, the strategy identifies “colonialism,” “patriarchy,” and “heteronormativity” as cultural challenges within the CAF. However, concerns have been raised by top defence leaders regarding the strategy’s negative tone and its application in a war-fighting force.

“We heard from many of you that there are concerns about how culture evolution will be received,” the CAF’s chief of professional conduct and culture wrote in a September email to defence leaders introducing the strategy.

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