The Saskatchewan government has introduced new legislation that expands the definition of interpersonal violence to include cyberstalking, online harassment and coercive or controlling behaviour.
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The Cyberstalking and Coercive Control Act updates The Victims of Interpersonal Violence Act, which allows victims to seek emergency protection orders restricting contact from an abuser and provides a mechanism to end long-term leases when there is a risk of future violence.
Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod, K.C., said the changes reflect a growing understanding of how abuse is carried out, particularly through technology.
“As a society, our understanding of control, harassment and abuse has evolved over time. We are modernizing legislation to ensure Saskatchewan residents remain safe and secure online and in their communities,” said McLeod.
“Expanding the definition of interpersonal violence will provide more options to protect those experiencing abuse and raise awareness about how these crimes are evolving through technologies like geo-location devices and cellphone monitoring software.”
Cyberstalking and coercive control will now be explicitly recognized as forms of interpersonal violence, giving victims clearer legal avenues when seeking help. The additions complement existing Criminal Code provisions dealing with unauthorized tracking and digital surveillance.
Alana Ross, minister responsible for the Status of Women, said coercive control often precedes more dangerous forms of abuse.
“Interpersonal violence takes many forms. It is not always physical or even visible,” said Ross. “Abusers use coercive control to isolate people from support, cutting off family, friends and finances, and it is often an early warning sign of more dangerous behaviours like physical abuse. Adding this to the legislation gives people another important tool to help prevent violence and escape abusive relationships.”
Coercive control can include restricting someone’s access to money, depriving them of basic needs, monitoring their activities, or isolating them from family and friends.
Dr. Crystal Giesbrecht, director of research with the Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PATHS), welcomed the changes.
“Amending the definition will make provisions within provincial legislation to protect survivors of violence and abuse available to those experiencing coercive or controlling behaviour or online stalking and harassment,” said Giesbrecht. “This change will increase options and enhance safety for victims and survivors in Saskatchewan.”
The province is allocating about $32 million this year for interpersonal violence programs and supports through the justice system, including $14.2 million for community-based partners, ongoing funding for second-stage shelters, and additional resources for Victims Services.
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