In a stark alert amid rising separatist fervour in Alberta, Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) Director Daniel Rogers cautioned that foreign adversaries could exploit an independence referendum to sow division and undermine Canada's democracy.
Speaking to CBC's Power & Politics following a recent address in Ottawa, Rogers emphasized the risks posed by information warfare.
"We definitely have to be attentive to the possibility of information operations or interference," he said, highlighting how hostile states might amplify polarizing narratives during such a high-stakes vote.
The warning comes as Alberta Premier Danielle Smith's government has eased signature thresholds for triggering a referendum, fuelling speculation of a sovereignty push akin to Quebec's historical bids.
Rogers stressed CSIS's non-partisan role: "CSIS doesn't have a role in Canadians exercising their opinion," but added that manipulation of public discourse remains a key vulnerability.
"Anytime foreign adversaries seek to divide Canadians and amplify certain narratives is a concern for the spy agency," he noted.
With Alberta's resource wealth and ethnic diversity making it a prime target, Rogers urged vigilance against cyber threats, disinformation campaigns, and proxy influences from nations like China, Russia, and Iran.
Experts liken the scenario to Brexit's chaotic meddling, warning of eroded trust in electoral processes. CSIS is ramping up briefings for provincial officials, but Rogers called for broader societal resilience.
"Polarization and radicalization are on the rise, and social cohesion is eroding," he observed in his speech, underscoring the urgency as Canada navigates twin referendum threats from Alberta and Quebec.