Democracy Under Pressure: China’s Influence in Canada and Beyond

Democracy Under Pressure: China’s Influence in Canada and Beyond

🗓 Date: Sunday, April 19, 2026

🕖 Time: 3pm

📍 Location: UBC (Robson Square) C300 Theatre, 800 Robson Street, Vancouver

A public forum examining foreign interference, Canada–China relations, and the future of Hong Kong.

🎤 Speakers:

• Charles Burton (Senior Fellow, Sinopsis Think Tank; former Canadian diplomat in China)

• Elizabeth Donkervoort (Director, China Strategic Risks Institute)

• Gabriel Yiu ( an award-winning commentator and spokesperson of the Concern Group)

• Terry Glavin ( a Canadian author and journalist)

⚠️ Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1985664449822?aff=oddtdtcreator

Democracy Under Pressure: China’s Influence in Canada and Beyond

Concerns about foreign interference, transnational repression, and growing geopolitical tensions have increasingly drawn public attention in Canada and other democratic societies. Developments in Hong Kong following the National Security Law have also raised important questions about civil liberties, rule of law, and the future of open societies.

This public forum brings together experts to examine China’s global influence, Canada–China relations, and the implications for democratic institutions and diaspora communities. The discussion will explore how democratic societies can respond to foreign interference, safeguard fundamental freedoms, and address the challenges posed by authoritarian expansion.

Join us for a timely and important conversation.

Presented by Vancouver Society in Support of Democratic Movement (VSSDM)