The Law Commission of Canada

The Law Commission of Canada is an independent body that provides non-partisan advice to the federal government on matters relating to the improvement, modernization and reform of Canadian laws. First established as the Law Reform Commission of Canada in 1971 and re-established as the Law Commission of Canada in 1997, the Commission will be operational again as of June 6, 2023.

The Commission supports the Government of Canada’s efforts toward a more inclusive, representative and accessible justice system – one that respects the rights of marginalized people and protects vulnerable communities.

The Government of Canada announced the appointment by Order-in-Council of the President and Commissioners of the revived Law Commission of Canada in February 2023. Budget 2021 provided $18 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, and $4 million annually, to re-establish the Law Commission of Canada.

What does the Commission do?

The work of the Commission will focus on ensuring a legal system that meets the changing needs of Canadian society. The Commission may focus on complex challenges such as systemic racism in the justice system, legal issues around climate change, reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, and rapid technological shifts in the world.

How does the Commission contribute to commitments made to Indigenous peoples?

Reviving the Law Commission of Canada contributes to the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16, to promote peaceful and inclusive societies, provide access to justice for all, and build accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.

The re-establishment of the Law Commission of Canada is identified as a key initiative to address systemic racism in the criminal justice system in the Federal Pathway. Reviving the Law Commission of Canada responds to the National Inquiry into MMIWG’s Calls for Justice 5.2, 5.3, 5.14, 5.17 and 5.18.

This initiative will also support whole-of-government efforts to align legislation, policies, programs and initiatives with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.