Urgent Call to Action: Child Advocates Demand Online Harms Bill

UPDATE: In a critical move, a coalition of child advocates and medical organizations is demanding the Canadian government take immediate action to address the escalating dangers children face online. This urgent appeal comes as they declare the situation a national emergency following shocking reports of exploitation, bullying, and even fatalities linked to online harms.

At a press conference held on November 20, 2025, on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, representatives from organizations including Children First Canada and the Canadian Medical Association voiced their deep concerns. They are calling for the revival of the online harms bill originally introduced by former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau‘s government, which has since stalled in Parliament.

Advocates emphasize that children’s safety online has reached a critical tipping point. Reports indicate that children are being increasingly targeted for exploitation and bullying, with some tragic cases leading to suicide. The group insists that immediate legislation is essential to protect vulnerable youth from these threats.

The previous online harms bill, introduced in 2024, failed to pass into law, and the current Liberal government has indicated they will not resurrect it in its original form. Instead, they plan to address online safety through separate legislation.

The growing prevalence of artificial intelligence chatbots has intensified these concerns, with experts warning about the detrimental effects these technologies can have on children. The advocates stress that without comprehensive legislation, children will remain at risk in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

What’s Next: As this situation develops, all eyes are on the government to see how they will respond to these urgent calls for action. Advocates are urging immediate engagement and dialogue with lawmakers to ensure children’s safety online remains a top priority.

This pressing issue is gaining traction across the country, with many citizens expressing their outrage and support for the advocates’ mission. Social media discussions are heating up, as parents and educators alike share their own experiences and concerns.

The coalition’s call to action underscores the importance of timely government intervention to safeguard children, ensuring that they can navigate the online world without fear of harm. As the community rallies together, the message is clear: protecting our children must take precedence in today’s digital age.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as both advocates and the government work towards a solution that prioritizes the safety and wellbeing of children across Canada.