Commissioner of Canada Elections Annual Report 2021

About us

The position of Commissioner of Canada Elections was originally created in 1974. The duties of the Commissioner of Election Expenses (as it was known at the time) were limited to ensuring compliance with, and enforcement of, rules relating to election expenses. In 1977, the Commissioner's duties were significantly expanded to include all provisions of the Canada Elections Act (the Act) and the position formally became known as the Commissioner of Canada Elections.

Today, the CCE continues to play an important role in safeguarding Canadians' trust in the democratic process. As an independent officer, the Commissioner's dual roles of ensuring compliance with, and enforcement of, the Act and the federal Referendum Act, are carried out with the aim of promoting the integrity of the electoral process.

The Commissioner is supported by approximately 50 people, including federal public servants and independent contractors.

Organizational Structure

Commissioner of Canada Elections

  1. Enforcement
    1. Investigations and Operations
    2. General Investigations
    3. Analytics
  2. Deputy Commissioner & Chief Legal Counsel
    1. Legal Services
    2. Compliance
  3. Corporate Services, Communications and Policy
    1. Communications, Policy and Engagement
    2. Corporate Services
      1. Complaint Management
      2. Administration and Finance
    3. IT Services

Complaints and Referrals

All complaints received by the CCE are assessed to determine if they fall within the mandate of the Office. The CCE also receives referrals from Elections Canada. In addition, Elections Canada transfers complaints it receives from the public to the CCE when they fall under the Commissioner's mandate. The Commissioner may also look into a matter on their own initiative.

Individuals whose complaints or allegations do not fall under the Commissioner's area of responsibility are advised and, wherever possible, are redirected to the appropriate complaint mechanism.

If, following a preliminary review, the Commissioner concludes that the allegations made in connection with a complaint or referral may have merit, a review or investigation may be conducted to clarify the facts and gather evidence related to the alleged contravention. At all times throughout the process, the Commissioner ensures that decisions are guided by the principles of independence, impartiality and fairness.

Additional information regarding the Commissioner's mandate can be found in the CCE's Compliance and Enforcement Policy.

Submitting a Complaint

The CCE receives complaints from a variety of sources. Anyone with a complaint or allegations of wrongdoing under the Act may contact the Commissioner's Office:

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