Montreal police recently arrested a 17-year-old boy suspected of planning a violent act linked to the Islamic State. This incident highlights growing concerns about the influence of extremist ideologies on Canadian youth. The internet has become a battleground in the fight against these dangerous beliefs, which threaten the fabric of Canadian democracy.

B’nai Brith Canada has supported proposals aimed at reducing the spread of extremist content online. However, experts argue that solutions must also address offline factors. The arrest in Montreal is part of a troubling trend, as authorities have noted an increase in extremist activities among young Canadians. This issue has intensified since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which sparked a wave of antisemitism worldwide, including in Canada.

In December 2023, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) issued a warning about the rising use of the internet by terrorists, coinciding with the arrest of an Ottawa teenager on terrorism charges. Two months later, the Integrated Terrorism Assessment Centre linked the Israel-Hamas conflict to rising religious and ideological tensions that could lead to violence.

In September 2024, police arrested a Pakistani national studying in Canada for allegedly plotting to kill Jews in New York City. The RCMP reported a staggering 488 percent increase in terrorism charges in 2024 compared to the previous year. Extremists from various ideological backgrounds have exploited the Middle East conflict to spread their messages, particularly targeting younger audiences through digital platforms.

On the far right, groups like the Maniac Murder Cult (MKY), a white supremacist organization, have encouraged Canadian youth to commit acts of hate. Earlier this year, a teenager linked to MKY was charged in Manitoba for vandalism that included racist and antisemitic graffiti. This trend indicates that extremist rhetoric online is increasingly affecting the daily lives of Canadians.

Radicalized youth have also been active in rallies and university protests across the country, often promoting terrorist groups and advocating for violence. Experts stress the need for society to protect young Canadians from radical narratives that undermine Canadian values.

Governments must recognize the connection between online activities and the rise in terrorism-related threats, as well as the increase in hate and division in public spaces. Legislative measures should be part of the response, including a review of online harm policies that considers the evolving nature of digital radicalization. Changes to the Criminal Code may be necessary to hold accountable those who use online platforms to spread hate speech or incite violence, even if they claim to be exercising free speech.

Lawmakers should also heed the calls from national security officials for increased resources for agencies like the RCMP, which are tasked with combating domestic extremism. Additionally, Ottawa may need to amend the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to enhance the vetting process for individuals with a history of promoting extremist ideologies.

Finally, it is crucial to address the cultural and political aspects of youth radicalization. Society has a responsibility to safeguard the next generation from the dangers of radicalization and extremism.