Terror group Hizb ut-Tahrir announces ‘Khilafah’ conference in Canada

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s sudden resignation has come amidst a whirlwind of controversies, including growing criticism over his government’s handling of terrorist groups operating freely in the country.

Now, the Islamist terror group Hizb ut-Tahrir (HuT), notorious for advocating a global Islamic caliphate, is scheduled to hold its annual conference in Mississauga, Ontario, on January 18, 2025. The event will promote the “restoration of an Islamic caliphate and the imposition of Sharia law.”

This announcement has reignited international criticism, highlighting concerns over Canada’s permissive stance towards the group’s operations despite its designation as a terrorist organisation in several countries.

A CONTROVERSIAL EVENT

Hizb ut-Tahrir, an organisation advocating for the establishment of a global Islamic caliphate, has announced its annual conference under the theme, “The Khilafah (Caliphate): Eliminating the obstacles that are delaying its return.”

A promotional video released on Hizb ut-Tahrir’s social media platforms invites attendees to explore ways to overcome what the group describes as “Colonialist superpowers”—including the United States, Europe, Russia, and China.

In the video, the group poses provocative questions such as, “Is America really so powerful that our Ummah (community) can’t defeat it?” Drawing historical parallels, Hizb ut-Tahrir references the conquests of ancient empires like Rome and Persia, claiming their cities, including Constantinople, as “Muslim cities.”

Sessions at the event are slated to include topics such as “Nationalism and Regimes: Frontline Enemies of Islam” and “Only the Khilafah Will Liberate Palestine: Everything Else is a Distraction.”

While the event has been announced, the precise venue remains undisclosed, fuelling concerns about the group’s intentions. Attendees must register via Eventbrite to obtain location details, a process that has drawn criticism for enabling terrorist events.

WIDESPREAD BANS, BUT NOT IN CANADA

Hizb ut-Tahrir, which translates to “Party of Liberation,” was founded in 1953 in then-Jordanian-controlled Jerusalem by Palestinian Islamic scholar Taqi al-Din al-Nabhani. Operating under strict Sharia law, the group has been banned in numerous countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, Egypt, India, China, Indonesia, Russia, Turkey, and Bangladesh, for promoting terrorism and antisemitism.

Last year, the group’s conference in the UK was cancelled after it was officially declared a terrorist organisation. Then-Home Secretary James Cleverly labelled Hizb ut-Tahrir as an “antisemitic organisation that actively promotes and encourages terrorism, including praising and celebrating the appalling October 7 attacks.”

Despite these international actions, Canada has yet to impose restrictions on the group. The Mississauga conference’s exact location remains undisclosed, with attendees required to register through Eventbrite to receive venue details. The platform itself has faced backlash for enabling terrorist events.

LOCAL AND GLOBAL REACTIONS

Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie has condemned the planned conference, calling it a threat to community harmony and suggesting potential legal action against it. Canadian Member of Parliament Kevin Vuong criticised Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government for its inaction, stating on social media, “Under their watch, Canada has become a safe haven for terrorist supporters.”

Trudeau’s administration has faced growing scrutiny for its handling of terrorist groups. The government’s support for Khalistani separatists has already strained Canada’s relations with India, which has accused Ottawa of sheltering individuals involved in terrorism and organised crime under the guise of political resistance.

HIZB UT-TAHRIR’S EXPANDING INFLUENCE

The group’s activities have also raised alarms beyond Canada. India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) recently filed charges against Abdul Rehman and Mujibur Rehman, alleged members of Hizb ut-Tahrir, for terrorist activities in Tamil Nadu and other regions.

In Bangladesh, the group’s influence has reportedly grown since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina’s government. The interim administration under Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus has faced criticism for appointing Nasimul Gani, a founder of Hizb ut-Tahrir Bangladesh, as Home Secretary, effectively endorsing the organisation.

A BROADER DEBATE ON FREE EXPRESSION, SECURITY

The planned conference underscores the challenges of balancing free speech with national security in democratic societies.

The resurgence of Hizb ut-Tahrir’s activities in Canada has amplified questions about the Trudeau government’s priorities. The group’s presence, coupled with accusations of sheltering Khalistani separatists, has led to widespread criticism of Trudeau’s policies on terrorism and free expression. As January 18 approaches, the Mississauga conference has become a litmus test for Canada’s stance on terrorism. The event not only challenges the country’s internal security framework but also its global reputation as a defender of democratic values.