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On December 9, 2025, the Quebec Student Union (UEQ) testified before a parliamentary committee as part of the review of Bill No. 1 - the 2025 Constitutional Act on Quebec. UEQ President Flora Demanger, accompanied by Higher Education Coordinator Sabrina Demers, presented the organization’s brief.

The UEQ expressed clear opposition to the bill and called for its withdrawal. Failing that, it calls on the opposition parties to commit to repealing it.

“We believe that this bill does not meet Quebec’s consultation standards, that it grants enormous powers to the Cabinet, and that it threatens the balance of powers.” — Flora Demanger, President of the Quebec Student Union

During its statement, the UEQ denounced the lack of public consultation commensurate with a constitutional bill, noting that the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms was adopted unanimously after years of bipartisan debate.

The organization also raised concerns about potential infringements on fundamental rights, particularly regarding the ability of civil society groups including student associations to challenge government decisions in court.

  “A constitution must be a tool for uniting people, not a means of suspending the Quebec Charter of Rights and Freedoms.” — Union étudiante du Québec

Despite a political climate deemed concerning, the UEQ was determined to fully assume its role as the representative of students and to defend their rights before parliamentarians.

“The Quebec Student Union chose to appear before the committee to defend students’ interests, in accordance with its mission.” — Quebec Student Union

For the UEQ, if Quebec wishes to adopt a constitution, it must be drafted by and for the people, through a democratic, transparent, and inclusive process.