CCLA Condemns Quebec Move To Expand Forced Treatment And Involuntary Hospitalization

TORONTO — The Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA) is raising serious concerns over Quebec government’s newly introduced legislation that lowers the legal threshold for involuntary hospitalization and forced treatment.

“Liberty is one of the most fundamental rights in a free and democratic society. When the state seeks to detain someone or impose medical treatment without consent, it must meet the highest legal standards and ensure robust safeguards,” said Harini Sivalingam, Director of the Equality Program at the CCLA. “Lowering the threshold for involuntary confinement risks violating fundamental rights, undermining personal autonomy, and eroding the right of individuals to make decisions about their own bodies and healthcare.”

The CCLA warns that expanding involuntary treatment can cause harm, including increased relapse and overdose risk may disproportionately impact marginalized and vulnerable communities.

The government should instead invest in voluntary, evidence-based mental health and addiction supports that respect individual rights and dignity. The CCLA urges the Quebec government to withdraw this proposal and prioritize approaches that support recovery without compromising fundamental freedoms.

“Involuntary treatment and confinement are among the most coercive powers the state can exercise,” said Howard Sapers, Executive Director at the CCLA. “Governments should be investing in voluntary, evidence-based supports that respect dignity, autonomy, and human rights.”

The CCLA is calling on the Quebec government to withdraw the proposed changes and instead focus on expanding access to voluntary mental health and addiction services, supportive housing, and community-based care.