EXPLAINER: Half a Year After Feds Relented on Holding Foreign Interference Inquiry, Where Does It Stand?

Two key individuals accused of being involved in Chinese interference were granted full standing, which will allow them to probe witnesses in the inquiry.

Storm clouds pass by the Peace Tower and Parliament Hill in Ottawa in a file photo. The Canadian Press/Adrian Wyld

Canada’s public inquiry into foreign interference, launched after widespread allegations of Beijing’s election meddling, has already met with criticism as the appointed judge is set to outline findings early in the new year.

The public inquiry will unfold in two phases: the first commencing in early 2024 and the second in the fall. An initial report is due by Feb. 29, 2024, with the final report expected by Dec. 31, 2024.