The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) is reporting a sharp rise in internal misconduct and harassment complaints, as outlined in its first annual public report on addressing workplace wrongdoing. The agency says it received 81 complaints in 2024, a 59 per cent jump from the previous year, amid ongoing efforts to promote transparency and rebuild trust among employees.
Rising cases seen as cultural shift
The 2023–2024 “Addressing Misconduct and Wrongdoing at CSIS” report details a total of 209 activities related to workplace complaints, including new cases, investigations, and disciplinary actions. While the numbers are up, CSIS Director Dan Rogers said the increase is a positive sign.
“By being open and transparent about the issues we face, it is my hope that more employees will come forward when they suspect misconduct and wrongdoing,” said Rogers.
Most of the growth stems from the “breach of conduct” category, which includes behaviours such as misuse of CSIS assets, workplace discrimination, and failure to protect classified information. Cases in this category rose 61 per cent year-over-year, with 30 cases deemed founded in 2024, up from 18 in 2023.
Harassment complaints also up, though few founded
Harassment and violence complaints increased by 57 per cent in 2024, though only one case met the federal definition of harassment following an external investigation. Sixteen complaints were resolved through other means such as mediation, workplace assessments or informal conflict management.
While formal investigations remain rare, every complaint prompts action under the Canada Labour Code. CSIS emphasized that even unfounded cases result in recommendations for workplace improvements.
New Ombuds role and focus on leadership
As part of its ongoing reforms, CSIS recently appointed its first internal Ombuds to provide an independent and confidential option for employees to raise concerns. The report underscores the role of senior leaders in modelling respectful behaviour and ensuring accountability.
The agency also noted that more than 48 per cent of its workforce is female and about 21 per cent identify as members of a visible minority, part of a broader commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Despite the uptick in complaints, CSIS said no disclosures met the legal threshold for “wrongdoing” under the Public Servants Disclosure Protection Act in 2023 or 2024.
Transparency seen as essential for progress
The release of this report marks the first time CSIS has publicly shared detailed misconduct and resolution data. The agency said it hopes annual reporting will increase employee confidence and improve workplace conditions over time.
“We are determined to respond to misconduct and wrongdoing in a timely and just manner,” Rogers wrote in the report’s introduction. See the full report here.
