Beyond AI Literacy: What It Takes to Earn Public Trust

Canadians are increasingly encountering artificial intelligence (AI) systems in their professional and personal lives. AI applications include prediction and recommendation algorithms, chatbots, AI generated digital media, and agentic AI that can act without human oversight, leading to real-world consequences. In June 2026, the federal government announced their national AI strategy, “AI for All.” The strategy seeks to promote AI adoption in Canada, highlighting the potential opportunities of AI for economic growth, productivity, industrial capability, politics, the betterment of society, and the enhancement of everyday life for Canadians. The strategy also recognizes Canada’s low public trust in AI and low levels of AI training and literacy, suggesting that these factors underpin Canada’s currently low AI adoption. on September 23rd 2026, Evidence for Democracy hosted a dynamic panel discussion on public trust in AI, exploring the roles of the federal government in ensuring the trustworthiness of AI applications in Canada.