The unfolding spat between Mark Steyn and Maclean‘s magazine and the Canadian Islamic Congress is symptomatic of a profound debate brewing in Canada. Two groups, both representing core democratic ideals, are at complete loggerheads with each other over the issue of freedom of expression. Civil libertarians and human rights advocates are competing to determine what should be the limits to free speech.

In a feature article for JournalismEthics.ca’s special report on offensive journalism and freedom of expression, Ron Friedman examines the rising role of human rights tribunals in restricting speech in Canada.