Yao Zhang received surprising news that sexually explicit deepfake images of her were being widely circulated online, an act attributed to the Chinese government by Ottawa. This incident was not the first time Zhang faced targeting from China. Following her visit to Taiwan in January 2024 in support of its independence, Chinese national police visited her aunt in mainland China. Zhang was also doxxed, with private information about her and her family posted on a website listing people considered disloyal to China. False rumors aimed at discrediting her began spreading online, alleging she had an affair with her stepbrother and was being paid by the U.S. government.
Similar attacks were reported by Canadian activists who have criticized the People’s Republic of China (PRC). These attacks included family members in China being questioned by authorities, surveillance of dissidents in Canada, threatening phone calls, and online tactics like spamouflage to spread propaganda across social media platforms.
While Zhang feels physically safe in Canada, the ongoing attacks have taken a toll on her mental well-being. An investigation by CBC News, in collaboration with the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), revealed an increase in Chinese government attacks on dissidents living in Canada and globally. Experts have expressed concern that these attacks undermine democracy, national security, and the rights of individuals in Canada.
Despite Parliament passing Bill C-70 in June 2024 to address transnational repression and foreign interference, little progress has been made in implementing the measures. Dissidents are often targeted for opposing China’s positions on issues such as democracy in Hong Kong, treatment of Uyghurs, Tibetan freedom, Falun Gong, and Taiwanese independence.
The ICIJ’s investigation highlighted how the Chinese government and its proxies utilize international organizations like Interpol and the United Nations to target critics. The tactics used by China align with guidelines on controlling individuals labeled as domestic security threats. The Chinese Embassy in Canada has not responded to inquiries from CBC News regarding these allegations.
The lack of protection and action against transnational repression in Canada has left activists feeling dismayed. While countries like Australia and the United States have taken steps to address such issues, there is a sense of neglect in Canada. The delay in implementing the foreign agent registry provided for in Bill C-70 has raised concerns about foreign agents operating in Canada without consequences.
Advocates emphasize the need for a cohesive approach to deal with transnational repression and the safeguarding of individuals targeted by foreign governments. The safety and security of dissidents and activists in Canada remain a pressing issue, with the government facing calls to address these threats effectively.