Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Conversation
The Conversation
Politics
Jack L. Rozdilsky, Associate Professor of Disaster and Emergency Management, York University, Canada

The occupation of Ottawa by the 'freedom convoy' has the potential for an urban siege

Trucks parked in front of the Chateau Laurier in Ottawa during the protest against COVID-19 restrictions. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang

Ontario’s declaration of a state of emergency in response to the so-called “freedom convoy” and its occupation of public space in Toronto and Ottawa and at the U.S.-Canada border in Windsor is intended to end the disruptions caused by protestors.

The announcement criminalizes disruptive acts like blocking roads and border crossings, and gives police the power to respond with charges and penalties ranging from $100,000 in fines to a year in prison.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.