In June 2006, the Government of Canada introduced Bill C-22 which would amend the criminal code to raise the age of consent to sexual activity from age 14 to 16. It is expected that the bill, which now refers to "age of protection", will be voted on in the House of Commons at some point in 2007. This article provides a summary of the contents of the legislation, outlines the key arguments that non-governmental organizations have articulated for and against raising the age of consent to sexual activity, and clarifies and discusses key issues relevant to the age of protection legislation.

The proposed "age of protection" legislation in Canada would raise the age of consent to sexual activity from 14 to 16, with key arguments from non-governmental organizations for and against the change.

Age of consent to sexual activity in Canada: Background to proposed new legislation on "age of protection"

Key Takeaway: The proposed "age of protection" legislation in Canada would raise the age of consent to sexual activity from 14 to 16, with key arguments from non-governmental organizations for and against the change.