New legislation will allow more international assistance to reach vulnerable people around the world in areas controlled by terrorist groups, including Afghans

On June 20, 2023, changes were made to the Criminal Code of Canada.

The changes will

• make it easier for international assistance to reach vulnerable people in Afghanistan
• shield authorized Canadians and Canadian organizations operating in areas controlled by terrorist groups from criminal liability

Learn more about the changes(opens in a new tab) .

Canadians and Canadian organizations subject to the Criminal Code can apply for an authorization. If granted an authorization, they’re shielded from the risk of criminal liability when

• carrying out or supporting specific activities, such as
  • immigration-related services
  • facilitating the safe movement of immigration applicants to third countries
• making or authorizing payments that could benefit a terrorist group, including for
  • translation or interpretation services
  • taxes
  • import tariffs
  • airport and administration fees
• complying with the terms and conditions outlined in the authorization

Information on how to apply will be available soon.