Canada Reviews AI Use in National Security, Examines Oversight

Canada’s National Security and Intelligence Review Agency (NSIRA) is conducting a comprehensive examination of the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in national security operations. This review will assess how Canadian security agencies define, utilize, and govern AI technologies, with an emphasis on ensuring accountability and transparency.

The review was communicated to key federal ministers and security organizations by NSIRA chair Marie Deschamps. In her letter, she indicated that the findings will offer critical insights into the deployment of new technologies and identify any “potential gaps or risks” requiring further attention. This initiative underscores the growing reliance on AI for tasks such as document translation and malware detection.

Scope of the Review and Involved Agencies

NSIRA has the statutory right to access all relevant information held by departments and agencies, including classified materials, with the exception of cabinet confidences. The review will include a variety of requests for information, ranging from documents and briefings to interviews and system access. Deschamps noted that some technical systems might also be subject to independent inspections.

The agency’s outreach involved multiple cabinet members, including Prime Minister Mark Carney, Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, and Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Public Safety. Notably, the letter also reached leaders of organizations with significant security roles, such as the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), and the Communications Security Establishment (CSE).

Interestingly, the correspondence also included heads of agencies not traditionally associated with national security, such as the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, indicating a broad approach to understanding AI’s implications across various sectors.

Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

The RCMP expressed support for the review, emphasizing the importance of external examination of national security and intelligence practices. In a media statement, the RCMP highlighted that “establishing transparent and accountable external review processes is critical to maintaining public confidence and trust.”

In 2024, a report from the National Security Transparency Advisory Group urged Canadian security agencies to provide detailed accounts of their AI applications. This body noted an anticipated increase in reliance on AI for analyzing extensive text and imagery, recognizing patterns, and interpreting behavioral trends.

While CSIS and CSE acknowledged the need for transparency regarding AI use, they also indicated constraints on what could be publicly shared due to security protocols. The federal government has established principles for AI usage that emphasize openness about its application and the necessity of early risk assessment to protect legal rights and democratic norms.

In its latest annual report, CSIS confirmed the implementation of AI pilot programs across its operations, aligning with the federal government’s guiding principles. Similarly, the RCMP outlines various factors essential for ensuring the ethical and responsible use of AI, including system design to mitigate bias, respect for privacy, and measures for accountability.

The CSE’s AI strategy focuses on developing innovative capabilities to address critical challenges while promoting responsible AI use. CSE chief Caroline Xavier stated that the agency will adopt AI thoughtfully, prioritizing accountability and rigorous testing to ensure effective implementation.

This review marks a significant step in addressing the complexities of AI’s role in national security and its governance. As technology continues to evolve, the findings from this examination may shape future practices and policies surrounding AI in Canada.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on January 1, 2026.