The Commissioner of Canada Elections (CCE), Caroline J. Simard, released her annual report for the 2025-2026 fiscal year on July 9, 2026. The report covers the period from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, and provides an overview of compliance and enforcement activities under the Canada Elections Act.
Key Highlights of the 2025-2026 Annual Report
The 2025-2026 fiscal year was marked by the 45th federal general election, a pivotal moment for the Office of the Commissioner of Canada Elections (OCCE). The annual report includes an analysis of the complaints most frequently received during the election period, offering insight into the types of issues that arise during a federal vote.
According to the report, the OCCE continued its modernization efforts by introducing new tools and implementing internal improvements to enhance its efficiency. The office also strengthened its collaboration with partners and began implementing recent legislative changes that directly affect its mandate under the Canada Elections Act.
Commissioner's Statement on the Election and Future Challenges
“During the last federal general election, our office fully carried out its mandate, thanks in large part to the preparatory work undertaken in advance. We are now ready to meet the challenges ahead, particularly those arising from recent legislative changes,” said Caroline J. Simard, Commissioner of Canada Elections.
The Commissioner of Canada Elections is the independent officer responsible for ensuring that the Canada Elections Act and the Referendum Act are complied with and enforced. The Commissioner and her staff handle complaints about federal elections and conduct reviews and investigations to determine whether there has been a contravention of the Act. The Commissioner may take any action deemed appropriate to ensure that the Act is complied with and enforced.
Modernization and Collaboration Efforts
In 2025-2026, the OCCE introduced new tools and implemented internal improvements to enhance its efficiency. It also strengthened its collaboration with partners and began implementing recent legislative changes that directly affect its mandate under the Act. These efforts are part of an ongoing commitment to ensure the integrity of federal elections.
The report also highlights the office's focus on compliance and enforcement, including the handling of complaints and the conduct of reviews and investigations. For complaints and non-media-related enquiries, the public is directed to use the online form available on the CCE website.
How to Access the Report and Stay Updated
The full annual report is available on the Commissioner of Canada Elections website. To receive updates from the CCE, individuals can subscribe to email alerts. The CCE also maintains a presence on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube for news and updates.
SOURCE: Commissioner of Canada Elections
