Are Canadian libel laws different from US?

Reader comment on item: [The Canadian Islamic Congress:] An Islamist Apology

Submitted by Jeffrey A. Supowit (United States), Jul 19, 2005 at 22:19

Is there a difference between Canadian and US libel laws? In the US, it would be extremely difficult for a public figure such as Dr. Pipes to maintain a libel suit over an opinion expressed by any party, no matter how false and pernicious it is. The opinion would have to be made with knowledge of its falsehood and a malicious intent. I know nothing abou Canadian law but I wonder if it provides more protection for the aggrieved party. Is it possible that this apology and retraction came about because Canadian is different from US law?

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Daniel Pipes replies:

Yes, there is a difference. Canada makes no provision for public figures; the law is the same for all.

DP