Update to DAOD 5019-1: Clarifying definitions and disclosure requirements for personal relationships

May 22, 2026 - Defence Stories

Estimated read time - 1:42

The Department of National Defence (DND) and Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Defence Administrative Order and Directive (DAOD) 5019-1, Personal Relationships policy has been revised and updated with a particular emphasis on addressing recommendation #4 of the Independent External Comprehensive Review (IECR) conducted by former Supreme Court Justice Louise Arbour. This DAOD applies to Regular and Reserve Force, as well as DND employees who act as managers / supervisors of CAF members. Practically speaking, it requires that, in specific circumstances, any existing or new personal relationships be disclosed to the chain of command.

The policy update addresses recommendation #4 of the IECR, which calls for clearer articulation, clarification, and regulation of personal relationships within the CAF by addressing issues of power imbalance, privacy, and oversight.

CAF policies and instructions must balance personal freedoms with professional conduct. While the updated DAOD clarifies that CAF members have the right to form personal relationships with other CAF members or DND employees without fear of reprisal or discrimination, it makes it clear that these relationships must not undermine a professional, respectful, and supportive work environment.

To that end, the updated policy provides clarity on how personal relationships are managed within a CAF context, supports the chain of command in applying this guidance, and places integrity and fairness as core values of the approach. It clarifies that, in undisclosed personal relationships involving a power imbalance, such as differences in rank, authority, or influence, the relationship will be presumed to be non-consensual unless there is evidence that demonstrates otherwise.

This means that the onus is on individuals with the higher rank, authority, or influence to report such relationships to their chain of command. They also must demonstrate that the relationship was consensual, and that it did not result in any real or perceived disadvantage to the party with lesser power or authority.

This approach recognizes the inherent difficulty of obtaining genuine consent when one party holds authority over the other. The intent is to protect Defence Team members from exploitation and uphold trust, professionalism, and fairness within the chain of command.

In addition, references to "fraternization" were removed from the DAOD. They have been replaced with clear detailed definitions and respectful language focused on professionalism and integrity, which are principal aspects of the IECR recommendation. The concept of "adverse personal relationship" has also been abolished.

The updated DAOD 5019-1, Personal Relationships is tangible evidence of the CAF's constant evolution and its ongoing efforts to strengthen professionalism and mutual respect among its members.