Justice Minister Fraser Plans Legislation Against Coercive Control

OTTAWA — Justice Minister Sean Fraser has indicated that addressing coercive control within intimate relationships will be a key focus of his forthcoming justice bill. This announcement follows a call from Members of Parliament (MPs) on the House of Commons status of women committee, who urged the federal government on November 26, 2025, to take decisive action by criminalizing coercive behavior.

Coercive control can manifest in various forms, including financial manipulation, punishment of pets, or isolation from friends and family. The status of women committee emphasized the need to recognize and combat these behaviors, which can have devastating impacts on victims.

Legislation in Development

Minister Fraser plans to introduce comprehensive legislation by the end of the year that encompasses a wide array of issues related to gender-based violence. He has expressed his commitment to considering feedback from the committee as well as insights from experts on coercive control. This approach aims to ensure that the proposed laws effectively address the complexities surrounding this issue.

In a previous session, the status of women committee expressed disappointment over the lack of progress on a private member’s bill introduced by former NDP MP Laurel Collins. This bill sought to amend the Criminal Code to include a specific offence for coercive control. Unfortunately, it did not pass before the election was called.

Next Steps and Expert Consultation

The government’s current initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for legal protections against coercive control. Fraser’s planned legislation will be informed by the lived experiences of victims and the recommendations of advocacy groups. Stakeholders are optimistic that these efforts will lead to meaningful change.

As the discussion around coercive control continues, Fraser remains dedicated to ensuring that the new legislation captures the nuances of these harmful behaviors. By prioritizing this issue, the Canadian government aims to create a safer environment for individuals in intimate relationships.

The upcoming bill represents a significant step toward recognizing and criminalizing coercive control, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle against gender-based violence in Canada.