Canada Research Chairs program faces scrutiny over DEI mandates

A report by the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, titled ‘The Equity-Excellence Trade-off’, examines the impact of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) mandates on Canada’s federal Canada Research Chairs (CRC) program. The program, valued at approximately $300–$311 million annually, has required universities to meet specific demographic targets since 2017.

Researchers Eric Kaufmann, Leif Rasmussen, and Jonah Davids found that demographic shifts have been rapid. While white men accounted for roughly 80% of the program in 2000, they represented approximately 25% by 2025. Official statistics from March 2026 indicate that several 2029 targets for gender equity, racialized groups, persons with disabilities, and Indigenous people have already been exceeded.

The report also highlights a correlation between demographic shifts and academic metrics. Using the h-index to measure research impact, the study found an average h-index of 38 for white and Asian men, 28 for women, and 18 for Black or Indigenous researchers. Additionally, the use of activist language related to social justice has increased significantly within certain funding agencies.