Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, often referred to as simply the Charter, is a constitutional document that enshrines the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals in Canada. It forms part of the Constitution Act, 1982, which was enacted to bring about greater autonomy and independence for the country.
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It forms part of the Constitution Act, 1982, which was enacted to bring about greater autonomy and independence for the country. The Charter protects various fundamental rights and freedoms, including freedom of expression, freedom of religion, freedom of assembly, and freedom of association. It also safeguards the rights to life, liberty and security of the person, as well as the right to equality before the law. The Charter also recognizes minority language rights and the rights of Aboriginal peoples, including their land claims. The Charter is enforced by the courts and has played a significant role in shaping Canadian law and society. It has been used to strike down legislation that is considered inconsistent with the Charter's provisions, leading to changes in areas such as criminal law, equality rights, and abortion access. The Charter has also been influential in promoting social justice, as courts have recognized and upheld rights related to LGBT rights, disability rights, and reproductive rights. However, the Charter is not an absolute guarantee of all rights and freedoms. It contains provisions that allow for reasonable limits to be placed on certain rights if those limits can be justified in a free and democratic society. This "reasonable limits" clause ensures that the Charter remains flexible and adaptable to evolving social values and needs. Overall, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms is a cornerstone of Canadian democracy, providing protection and recognition of the fundamental rights and freedoms of all individuals in the country.