Canada’s largest arms exhibition, the CANSEC trade show, has barred multiple independent journalists from accessing the event. This year’s CANSEC takes place on Wednesday and Thursday at Ottawa’s Cohere Centre, organized by the Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries (CADSI). The event attracts a host of arms manufacturers and politicians.
Media Accreditation Issues at CANSEC
Among those denied access are journalists from The Maple and independent writer Christy Somos. The Maple applied for media accreditation but received a rejection citing that it did not meet CADSI’s eligibility requirements. Despite requests for clarification on these criteria, CADSI did not respond.
Eligibility Requirements
- Media organizations must possess substantial original content on defence and security issues.
- Advocacy-focused publications may not qualify for accreditation.
The organization claims that all new media applications are assessed individually and decisions are final. CANSEC, being a private entity, reserves the right to deny any applications.
Concerns from Independent Journalists
Christy Somos, who intended to report for The Walrus, encountered difficulties when she missed the official registration deadline. CADSI claimed media capacity was reached. However, she learned from former CADSI employees that deadlines were often flexible, leading her to question whether her critical coverage of military affairs influenced the denial.
Another independent publication, The Breach, was similarly rejected for its “aggressively critical anti-war journalism.” Reports suggest that a CADSI representative indicated conditional access based solely on providing favorable coverage.
Influence of Political Figures and Organizations
This year’s keynote speakers include influential figures such as Defence Minister David McGuinty and Industry Minister Mélanie Joly. Additionally, guests include Jake Sullivan, former U.S. President Joe Biden’s national security advisor. The event is backed by important defense firms like BAE Systems and Boeing, along with provincial agencies from Ontario and Nova Scotia.
Increased Military Focus
Due to recent increases in military funding and commitments to NATO spending targets, this year’s CANSEC is particularly significant. Canada aims to elevate military exports by 50% over the next ten years as part of the Defence Industrial Strategy launched in February.
As public interest in the defense sector heightens, the CANSEC event underscores a critical period for transparency and scrutiny in arms manufacturing and military investment.
Upcoming Press Conference
Students from the University of Toronto have publicly criticized the institution’s support for CANSEC. They have scheduled a press conference this Wednesday to address their concerns. Concurrently, activists are urging the Canadian government to prevent Elbit Systems, known for its controversial military ties, from participating in the fair.
