An article in The Hill Times discusses how Global Affairs Canada (GAC) received more misconduct and wrongdoing complaints last year but did not follow up on the complaints with investigations. The GAC did not explain why when The Hill Times inquired.
Ian Stedman, associate professor in the School of Public Policy & Administration, told the publication that fewer investigations do not necessarily indicate a failure of accountability, provided Global Affairs Canada applies clear and consistent procedures. He noted that a decline in founded cases does not automatically mean conduct has improved. Rather, the number of complaints and substantiated cases can be influenced by a range of factors and may not accurately reflect the actual level of misconduct.
Stedman holds a PhD in law from Osgoode Hall Law School. His research interests include law and justice, science and technology, public sector ethics and accountability, as well as AI.
Read the full article in The Hill Times.