on the Mend Putting the Spark Back Into the Government-Charitable Sector Relationship

the audits seemed to focus on the political activities of environmental groups and other charities perceived to be inconsistent with the ideology of the government.1 the concerns fed fears that the government was trying to suppress the advocacy efforts of charities, resulting in the perception of an “advocacy chill” in the sector.2 despite reports of the potential political bias and punitive natur. [...] the government has given the Cra and the department of Finance the mandate to clarify the rules governing political activity and develop a new legislative framework to “strengthen the sector.” But mending the sector-government relationship will require transformational shifts that go beyond legislative changes and Cra rules. [...] this confusion highlights the need for clarification of the rules charities operate under, the sector’s legitimate role in the public policy process, and the need for a new legislative framework – one that supports the sector and enables it to maximize social impact. [...] these actions can be the first steps to re- establish a sense of fairness and trust and allow time for the government and sector to develop new frameworks that consider the broader policy context the sector is operating in and the new realities facing the sector in Canada. [...] over the coming months, Mowat NFP will undertake collaborative research to provide insight into the key decisions needed to help the government and the charitable sector take action to clarify roles and responsibilities in the sector-government relationship, enable innovation, and strengthen and modernize public policy frameworks.