A recent Leger online survey revealed that 57% of Canadians believe their freedom of speech is threatened.
Among them, 34% see it as somewhat endangered, while 23% perceive a serious threat.
Conversely, 36% feel their speech rights are secure, with 7% uncertain or abstaining.
While 76% express comfort in sharing opinions, this figure drops to 71% on contentious topics like abortion, gun control, and immigration. Conducted from April 26 to 28, the survey sampled 1,610 Canadians.
Predictably, opinions on free speech mirror political affiliations. Conservative voters, at 76%, are most concerned, contrasting with 61% of Liberals who feel secure. The NDP camp is evenly divided.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre often accuses Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of stifling dissent, particularly criticizing the proposed Online Harms Act, aimed at curbing harmful online behavior.
While some argue for stricter penalties on hate speech, others fear it could suppress dialogue. Overall, Canadians are split: 44% advocate limits to block hate speech, while 45% champion unrestricted speech.
Story by Ted Smith with files from the Canadian Press