Muslim Brotherhood networks embedded into Canadian politics, schools, report says

The Muslim Brotherhood and related networks in Canada are not isolated groups, but rather part of a coordinated strategy to gain influence across various sectors, according to a new report by the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy (ISGAP). This 200-page report, focused on antisemitism and extremism, argues that these networks should be understood as part of a structured transnational strategy involving narrative control, institutional embedding, political mobilization, and legal manipulation.

The report highlights four key domains through which the Muslim Brotherhood operates its strategy in Canada. Firstly, narrative development shapes public discourse, particularly concerning Israel and its legitimacy. Secondly, institutional embedding involves interconnected infrastructures across mosques, charities, schools, universities, advocacy organizations, student groups, and professional networks.

Thirdly, policy impact and political mobilization translate institutional presence and narrative influence into coalition building, advisory roles, and policy outcomes. Lastly, legal framework manipulation includes litigation, procedural challenges, and reputational pressure.

Higher education is a primary focus for the report, with concerns raised about foreign funding transparency, research agreements, potential dual-use applications, and political mobilization on university campuses. The University of Toronto is cited as a central node in the development and dissemination of anti-Israel narratives, hosting events like Israeli Apartheid Week and being home to organizations such as the Muslim Students Association (MSA), Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP), and the Palestinian Youth Movement (PYM).

These organizations have ties to Qatari funding and American Muslim groups, with some having origins linked to the Muslim Brotherhood.

ISGAP also discusses the role of Qatari-linked research funding at universities like the University of Toronto and Toronto Metropolitan University, which have signed memoranda of understanding with Qatari institutions. The presence of these foreign influences, coupled with limited disclosure, raises concerns about potential avenues for foreign and ideological influence, including antisemitic incitement.

The report further examines political mobilization around Israel and the Palestinian issue as a significant channel for Islamist-linked networks seeking influence within Canadian politics.