Submission for the UN Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate Assessment Visit – Canada Submission on Behalf of: Canadian Muslim Lawyers Association
Prepared by: Dr. Fahad Ahmad (Department of Criminology, Toronto Metropolitan University)
Dated: March 4, 2023
In February 2023, the UN Security Council's Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate (CTED) invited the CMLA to participate in a civil society roundtable about the human rights impact of Canada's counter-terrorism measures. At this event, CMLA was represented by Dr. Fahad Ahmad, Assistant Professor in the Department of Criminology at Toronto Metropolitan University.
During the roundtable discussion, the CMLA had an opportunity to share the robust input that we received from numerous members regarding these important issues. Our comments were well-received.
As a complement to the discussion, the CMLA also provided CTED with a written report (attached) which includes data-driven research and details regarding the CMLA's perspective on the following issues:
a) Bias and Abuse in the Criminal Justice System
b) Stigma and Political Chill Based on Interactions with National Security Agencies
c) Prejudicial Targeting of Muslim Charities and Mobility Restrictions
d) The Securitization of Muslims through Countering Violent Extremism
We encourage you to review and share this report as well.
Thank you to Prof Ahmad and to all of the members who provided input and feedback regarding this important exercise.
Yours truly, CMLA Board
