The Confédération des syndicats nationaux (CSN) is appearing before the Quebec Superior Court to challenge the province’s new law on union governance and transparency. Several other labour organizations have already filed similar petitions in recent months. The law has drawn particular attention for its provision allowing optional union dues — in addition to main dues — to fund certain activities, such as participation in social movements or partisan advertising. It also imposes obligations on labour organizations when it comes to submitting audited financial statements, the reporting of expenditures and the conduct of secret ballots. Like other labour organizations, the CSN, in its petition, calls it a violation of freedom of association and freedom of expression. “The purpose of the law, which is to diminish the influence of countervailing forces and union action, substantially impedes the role of labour unions, union action and collective bargaining — that is, their ability to participate in and maintain their association — all of which are activities protected by the freedom of association,” the CSN alleges in its petition. It also argues that “the use of union dues to fund legal challenges, partisan advertising or participation in social movements is an expressive activity in and of itself that conveys the opinions and messages of labour organizations.” The labour federation is asking the Superior Court to declare the law unconstitutional, invalid and unenforceable. This report by The Canadian Press was first published in French on Sept.1 2026.
