Canada Moves to Ban Crypto Donations in Elections Amid Foreign Interference Concerns
Canada's federal government has introduced the Strong and Free Elections Act, legislation explicitly prohibiting political parties and third-party groups from accepting cryptocurrency donations. The bill targets payment methods deemed difficult to trace, including crypto, money orders, and prepaid cards—vehicles potentially exploited by foreign actors to funnel undisclosed funds into domestic politics.
Penalties under the proposed law are severe: individuals face fines up to $25,000, while corporations risk penalties of $100,000. Violators may also forfeit twice the original donation amount. House Leader Steven MacKinnon framed the measures as critical to preserving electoral integrity, stating the reforms ensure elections remain 'free, fair, and secure.'
This marks Ottawa's second attempt at such a ban, following a similar 2024 proposal that stalled. The move reflects growing global scrutiny of crypto's role in political financing, particularly amid heightened concerns about foreign influence operations.
