Canadian measures aimed at preventing terrorist financing can obstruct legitimate humanitarian work by Muslim charities, particularly when aid is destined for countries considered high-risk, according to a new study.
The research found that charities can face frozen transactions, closed bank accounts and increased scrutiny when attempting to send humanitarian assistance to countries such as Syria and Yemen.
The study, conducted by University of Toronto law and history professor Anver Emon, argues that financial institutions can interpret Canada’s anti-terrorism and public safety requirements in ways that restrict organisations that are legally registered and remain in good standing with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
“In practice, this can mean they terminate a client's account with limited notice and without disclosing the reason,” the study said, according to CTV News.
Once access to banking services is lost, charities can struggle to transfer funds, pay staff or carry out other basic operations.
Muslim organisations in Canada have previously raised concerns about what they describe as disproportionate scrutiny from federal authorities, particularly through audits examining the risk of terrorist financing.
The issue becomes particularly complicated when charities operate in conflict zones or countries classified as presenting a higher financing risk.
The study said legitimate humanitarian transfers can be delayed or blocked if banks interpret regulations conservatively to avoid potential violations.
“Registered charities in good standing with the CRA lose access to essential financial services and cannot fulfil their operational requirements,” it said.
Charities can also face consequences during CRA audits if authorities determine that funds may have been used to support terrorism. Losing charitable status or the ability to issue tax receipts can significantly affect fundraising.
The CRA has previously faced criticism over allegations that its approach disproportionately affects Muslim-led charities. The agency has maintained that its audits are based on risk and that it does not select organisations for review based on religious affiliation.
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