Research publications

The United Nations’ (UN’s) “special procedures” constitute an international system for monitoring human rights. Special procedures draw on the expertise of independent human rights experts who act independently and are mandated to report and advise on human rights, which they examine from the perspective of a specific country (a country mandate) or from the perspective of particular human rights issue (a thematic mandate). Special procedures may be established as individuals called “special rapporteurs” or “independent experts,” or as groups of five members each known as “working groups.” As of November 2025, there were 59 active special procedures mandates, with 46 focused on thematic issues and 13 on specific countries or territories.

This HillNote provides an overview of voting in the official language of one’s choice during Canadian federal elections, including differing interpretations of the Official Languages Act and how bilingual services at polling stations are determined.

Built in the mid-1800s as part of the original Parliament buildings in Ottawa, and opened on 28 February 1876, the Library of Parliament was always meant to be more than a repository of books. It was built to give lawmakers the reliable information they need to debate laws, pass legislation and hold the government to account. Today, it stands as the Parliament of Canada’s knowledge centre – a modern, non-partisan research library that helps parliamentarians navigate an increasingly complex policy environment. This HillNote commemorates the Library of Parliament’s 150-year anniversary by providing background information about its history and evolution.

On 21 June, National Indigenous Peoples Day, communities across Canada hold events that celebrate Indigenous cultures and achievements. The year 2026 represents the 30th National Indigenous Peoples Day. To highlight this special occasion, this HillNote focuses on examples of Indigenous leadership in post-secondary education, as well as some current issues. Indigenous Peoples are taking charge of their future education by developing new institutions adapted to their needs.

The Governor General is appointed by the Crown on the advice of the prime minister. The selection and appointment process has evolved considerably since Confederation. Early in Canada’s history, the Canadian government had a limited role in the appointment process. As Canada asserted its independence in the early 20th century, it gained more control over the process. In recent years, some prime ministers have relied on advisory groups for advice in selecting an individual for appointment as Governor General. This HillNote discusses the evolution of the selection and appointment process for Canadian governors general and compares the various advisory groups that have been struck.

In March 2018, Canada and 10 other jurisdictions in the Asia–Pacific region signed the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP or the Agreement). Since then, several jurisdictions have expressed an interest in acceding to the Agreement, and those that make a formal request to do so must complete the steps in the CPTPP’s accession process in order to accede. To date, the United Kingdom alone has acceded to the Agreement. Among the other jurisdictions that have requested accession, the process has formally started only for Costa Rica and Uruguay. In August 2026, a number of jurisdictions had either acceded to the Agreement, made a formal accession request or informally indicated an interest in acceding to the Agreement.

Gasoline prices are highly volatile and vary across regions. While retail prices are visible to consumers, the factors that determine them are less apparent. Crude oil prices are the major driver of gasoline prices; however, other factors also influence the final price at the pump. The retail price of gasoline reflects the costs incurred throughout the supply chain and consists of four components: crude oil prices, refining margins, retail margins and taxes. This HillNote examines how they affect (unleaded) gasoline prices across Canada and over time.

In fall 2025, in response to trade uncertainty, the Government of Canada introduced the Buy Canadian Procurement Policy Framework to support domestic suppliers in public procurement. The federal government buys tens of billions of dollars' worth of goods and services annually. Buying from Canadian suppliers supports local industry and keeps more money in the country. However, the government is often required to hold fair, open and transparent competitions to choose a supplier.

The Government of Canada offers some services directly to Canadians, such as the screening services provided by the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority, or the provision of passports (for a fee). However, for the most part, it transfers funds to other orders of government, individuals or third parties. This HillNote outlines the arrangements and procedures governing the federal government’s system of transfer payments, particularly as it pertains to voted programs.

Health research refers broadly to all research related to health, health systems or health care delivery. Funding for health research in Canada comes from a variety of sources such as the federal government, provincial and territorial governments, higher education institutions such as universities, industry – including companies in the health sector – and non-governmental organizations such as health-related charities. This HillNote provides an overview of federal sources of funding for health research in Canada.