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The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms was enacted in 1982 as part of the Constitution Act, which is the supreme law of the country. The Charter guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms to all individuals in Canada, and its purpose is to protect individuals from arbitrary or unjustifiable government actions.

The Charter sets out a range of rights and freedoms, including but not limited to freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of assembly, and the right to equality before the law. It also includes legal rights for individuals involved in the criminal justice system, such as the right to a fair trial and the right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure. If a law or government action violates the rights and freedoms protected by the Charter, it can be challenged in court, and the courts have the power to strike down laws or government actions that are found to be unconstitutional.