In this four-part series, the CBC’s Elizabeth Withey explores recent trends in social disorder and crime, and how they are shaping public perceptions of safety.
CBC Calgary looking into public perceptions of safety, impact of crime and social disorder, and solutions
Elizabeth Withey · CBC News · Posted: Apr 07, 2026 7:00 AM EDT | Last Updated: 2 hours ago
Listen to this article
Estimated 1 minute
The audio version of this article is generated by AI-based technology. Mispronunciations can occur. We are working with our partners to continually review and improve the results.
Join CBC News in this four-part series as we explore how crime and social disorder are changing Calgary. (CBC News)
Public safety is a big talking point in Calgary.
Many Calgarians do not feel safe, especially downtown and on public transit.
Often, it’s because of what they see in public spaces: suspicious behaviour, open drug use, disturbances, and people struggling with mental health issues and homelessness. Calls to police about social disorder in the city centre hit a six-year high in 2025. And while overall crime is down citywide, violent crimes have increased in frequency and severity, especially in the core.
CBC Calgary has been looking into public perceptions of safety, the impact of crime and social disorder, and what’s happening in the city to address these complex issues.
We’ll be airing and publishing these stories during the month of April. Check back for more reporting and leave your thoughts in the form below. We’d love to hear from you.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Corrections and clarifications·Submit a news tip·Report error