Peter Biro is a leading Canadian legal thinker, public intellectual, and civic advocate whose work bridges the worlds of law, scholarship, public policy, and democratic engagement. With a background in constitutional law and political theory, Biro has dedicated his career to examining and defending liberal democracy in the face of rising populism, polarization, and institutional fragility.
As founder of Section 1, he champions a citizen-driven approach to revitalizing democratic life, encouraging active civic participation and constitutional literacy. Through his teaching, media commentary, and writing—including two significant edited volumes—he has shaped public discourse on the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, especially the use and abuse of the notwithstanding clause.
Peter’s influence extends beyond the academy. He brings legal analysis to bear on real-world issues through his roles as an educator at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law, a Senior Fellow at Massey College, and a Centre Associate at UBC’s Centre for Constitutional Law. His leadership has also been felt in the non-profit and international spheres, including his work with the Jane Goodall Institute (Global) and the Canadian International Council.
Whether through courtroom advocacy, public scholarship, or institution-building, Peter Biro exemplifies a rare commitment to democratic renewal, constitutional integrity, and the belief that heroic citizenship is not only possible—but necessary—in a time of democratic stress.
What do you think?
- Do you believe democracy is threatened? Globally or here in Canada?
- Peter Biro believes that “heroic citizenship” is needed to protect democracy. What do you think he means by that term? What might heroic citizenship look like in your school, community, or country?
- Section 1, the organization Peter founded, is named after Section 1 of the Canadian Charter. What does that section say, and why do you think it’s important to him?
- Do you understand your rights and responsibilities as a citizen in a democracy like Canada?
- What did you learn from Peter’s remarks? And will you join him? Will you become one of those heroic citizens who stands up to democratic backsliding and actively works to steward and strengthen our rights and freedoms?