Rule of law, judges ‘under attack’ in many countries, Canada’s chief justice says

OTTAWA — Chief Justice Richard Wagner says the rule of law and judicial independence are “under attack” in many countries around the world — but Canadians have reasons to be optimistic.

Wagner was asked at a news conference Tuesday whether Canadians could see the sort of adversarial approach to the judiciary that the White House has adopted recently in the United States.

The administration of President Donald Trump has lashed out at some judges, accusing them of abusing their powers and even suggesting they be impeached or prosecuted.

While he would not single out a specific country, Wagner said that when a government maligns the media, judges, lawyers and universities, it could be a sign of dictatorship or an autocratic regime.

“There are many places in the world living through those events right now and I think we have to be careful,” he said.

Wagner added that while Canadians should not take anything for granted, they should be optimistic about their legal system.

Canada, unlike many countries, has a strong judicial system with good lawyers and well-trained, impartial judges governed by ethical principles, he said.

He suggested that Canadians generally respect judicial independence and are happy to live in a country where the rule of law prevails.

“We have a lot to offer,” Wagner said. “And that’s the message I give to the Canadian citizens.”

He also stressed the importance of defending the roles played by the courts and the media outlets that cover judicial proceedings.

Wagner thanked journalists across Canada who report on the courts. “Most people never set foot in a courtroom, so your reporting is essential,” he said. “It informs Canadians about the role, the work and the decisions of our courts and tribunals.”

Wagner noted he has expressed concern about the slow pace of judicial appointments leading to vacancies on superior and federal courts.

“I am delighted that the government of Canada has reduced vacancies by around 75 per cent over the last year-and-a-half,” Wagner said Tuesday. “That is great progress and I hope it continues. Every timely appointment supports more efficient justice for Canadians.”

Wagner said the Supreme Court of Canada, which is marking its 150th anniversary this year, plans to sit in Halifax in September 2027.

The top court heard cases in Quebec City in 2022 and Winnipeg in 2019 — part of ongoing efforts to make its work more accessible to Canadians.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 10, 2025.

Jim Bronskill, The Canadian Press