Canada to outlaw prayers in public spaces

Quebec Minister for Secularism Jean-François Roberge. Photo: Jacques Boissinot / The Canadian Pre

On August 28, 2025, the government of Quebec (Canada) declared its intention to introduce a ban on prayers in public spaces as part of its efforts to reinforce secularism, reports The Globe and Mail.

Minister for Secularism Jean-François Roberge promised to present the bill this fall. “The growth of street prayers is a serious and sensitive issue in Quebec. Last December our government expressed concern about this growing phenomenon, especially in Montreal,” he said.

The ban will be included in the government’s broader policy For the Future of Quebec, aimed at tightening secularism rules. Earlier, restrictions had already been imposed on public employees wearing religious symbols, and now the proposal extends the ban to the education sector.

Human rights defenders have already opposed the law. The Canadian Civil Liberties Association called the initiative a “troubling measure” that violates fundamental rights: “Public spaces belong to everyone, regardless of their religious beliefs. Diversity of faiths, cultures, and identities must be respected and protected in these spaces.”

Religious leaders also reacted. President of the Assembly of Catholic Bishops of Quebec Martin Laliberté warned that the law might restrict even traditional Catholic practices: “A ban on public prayers could interfere with such rituals as the Stations of the Cross on Good Friday. I think we are entering a very dangerous situation for the government.”

The Christian think tank Cardus likewise expressed concern. Its Quebec director Jean-Christophe Jasmin stated: “Eliminating religion as a charitable purpose will cause irreparable harm to institutions that are vital for believers and Quebec society as a whole.”

According to Cardus, religion remains deeply woven into the province’s life: every year more than 20.9 million people attend religious services in Quebec – more than double the attendance of all forms of arts and entertainment combined.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that every 20th death in Canada occurs through euthanasia.

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