In a powerful show of unity, a coalition of more than 300 organizations across Quebec is demanding Premier François Legault abandon his proposed provincial constitution, labeling the plan a profound threat to democracy and fundamental freedoms.
A Coalition of Opposition Forms
The groups, which include human rights advocates, environmental law organizations, immigration support networks, and major labour unions, unveiled a joint statement on Thursday. They gathered in Montreal as hearings on the controversial constitution began at the National Assembly. The statement, signed by 318 organizations, declares the government's process illegitimate and calls for the complete withdrawal of the legislation, known as Bill 1.
Paul-Étienne Rainville of the Ligue des droits et libertés, a key organizer, condemned the government's approach at a press conference. "We denounce the opaque, authoritarian and undemocratic process the government used to prepare and present its proposed constitution," Rainville stated. He emphasized that the process failed to meet United Nations criteria for adopting a democratic constitution, urging all of Quebec society to reject it outright.
Critics See an Attack on Rights and Democracy
Premier Legault introduced Bill 1 in October, framing it as a necessary step to affirm Quebec's "national, distinct character." However, the broad coalition of critics sees it very differently. In their joint statement, they describe the proposed constitution as "an attack on democracy and human rights."
The organizations accuse the Coalition Avenir Québec government of a "unilateral and rushed" process that ignores democratic standards. They also argue it perpetuates colonial logic by denying Indigenous peoples' right to self-determination. Instead of addressing pressing public concerns like healthcare, housing, and the cost of living, the groups say the government is targeting fundamental freedoms, checks on power, and the rule of law.
Legal and International Scrutiny Intensifies
The opposition extends far beyond the 300 signing groups. Constitutional lawyers, academics, universities, and opposition parties have all voiced strong criticism. Quebec's professional order of lawyers has warned the plan represents a "drift towards authoritarianism."
The scrutiny has now reached the international stage. On Tuesday, a lawyers' group focused on human rights and the rule of law, backed by Indigenous leaders and other organizations, formally asked the United Nations to investigate the proposed constitution. They contend it infringes on fundamental rights, raising the stakes for the Legault government.
The statement was spearheaded by the Ligue des droits et libertés, alongside a coalition assisting refugees and immigrants and an environmental law organization. They were joined by two of Quebec's largest union federations: the Fédération des travailleurs du Québec (FTQ) and the Confédération des syndicats nationaux (CSN).
