Saskatchewan expands interpersonal violence definition to include coercive control, cyberstalking
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Saskatchewan has introduced legislation that broadens the legal definition of interpersonal violence to include coercive control and cyberstalking.
The Cyberstalking and Coercive Control Act amends The Victims of Interpersonal Violence Act to provide protections for victims experiencing non-physical forms of abuse. The expanded definition gives victims access to emergency orders restricting perpetrator contact and processes for ending tenancies when they face risk of future violence.
“As a society our understanding of control, harassment, and abuse has evolved over time, and we are modernizing legislation to ensure Saskatchewan residents remain safe and secure online and in their communities,” said Justice Minister Tim McLeod.
What constitutes coercive control
Coercive control involves patterns of behaviour designed to strip away a person’s freedom and sense of self. These behaviours include strictly controlling finances, depriving someone of basic needs, closely monitoring activities, and isolating individuals from family and friends.
The legislation specifically addresses cyberstalking, including instances where perpetrators use tracking devices or cellphone monitoring software to surveil victims without consent. These provisions strengthen protections already found in the Criminal Code.
“Interpersonal violence takes many forms, it is not always physical or even visible,” said Alana Ross, minister responsible for the status of women. “Abusers use coercive control to isolate people from support — cutting off family, friends, and finances — and it is often an early warning sign of more dangerous behaviours like physical abuse.”
Provincial funding
Dr. Crystal Giesbrecht, director of research at the Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan, said the amendments will increase safety options for survivors. “Amending the definition will make provisions within provincial legislation to protect survivors of violence and abuse available to those experiencing coercive or controlling behaviour or online stalking and harassment,” she said.
The Saskatchewan government is dedicating approximately $32 million this year to interpersonal violence programs and services through the justice system. This includes $14.2 million annually for community-based partners, annualized funding for second-stage shelters, and support for victims services.
Content retrieved from: https://hrlawcanada.com/2025/11/saskatchewan-expands-interpersonal-violence-definition-to-include-coercive-control-cyberstalking/.
