This briefing paper details analysis of Canadian domestic extremists’ online activity between 1 March and 31 May 2025. It explores the platforms they are active on, the topics which galvanize them, and the ways in which they target communities in Canada. It is part of a multi-year study which provides ongoing insight into Canadian domestic extremist activity through the ongoing delivery of analytical briefs.

ISD used its definition of domestic extremism (see Annex) to decide if accounts and channels should be included. This definition states that extremism can be pursued through violent or non-violent means. It thereby complements efforts addressing political violence and terrorism by considering the broader risks to democracy, rights, and social cohesion posed by non-violent extremism. This broader focus also aims to highlight the continuum of ideologies and activities that inspire violence and illuminate different pathways to radicalization. A full breakdown of the methodology employed can be found in the technical Annex.

ISD analyses anti-Muslim speech as a form of hate but also tracks anti-Muslim extremists as a sub-group of domestic extremism. Anti-Muslim extremists are an established category of extremists that historically have primarily targeted Muslims.

ISD also analyses hate against other communities such as Jewish people, LGBTQ communities or migrants. So far, there are no corresponding categories for e.g. antisemitic extremists or anti-LGBTQ extremists, as these types of hate are usually one element of more established domestic extremist worldviews such as white supremacy or ethnonationalism, rather than their defining characteristic.

This report was delivered with funding support from the Public Safety Canada Community Resilience Fund. The views expressed here do not necessarily represent those of the Government of Canada.