Democracy, Justice & Governance

TMU’s researchers explore the intersections between law, governance, and modern institutions by investigating how the pillars of democracy, including the rule of law, freedom of the media, and protection of human rights, can be strengthened to enhance inclusivity, public participation, and accountability.

TMU’s SRC activity focuses on deconstructing traditional legal distinctions to empower communities to foster inclusive social justice that centres the experiences of equity-deserving communities, including Indigenous peoples, Black, and other racialized groups. Researchers also examine the role of social movements in shaping norms, critically assess the regulative force of legal institutions, and make tangible contributions to access to justice reforms.

In an era of deliberate proliferation of misinformation, it is especially important to rebuild and enhance trust in public institutions at the local, national, and international levels. By fostering critical dialogue, scholarly inquiry, international collaboration, and community partnerships, TMU’s SRC contributes to the development of more equitable and just democratic systems.

The evolution in how information is communicated is revolutionizing journalism and the media industry. This transformation is opening avenues to address disparities in coverage and representation, paving the way for more inclusive narratives that challenge and change harmful stereotypes. In confronting the multifaceted and intersecting challenges of, for example, growing income and social inequality, a rise in populism, and the risk of foreign interference, TMU researchers are working to repair societal fractures and accelerate progress towards equity and inclusion