Founded in Montreal (Quebec, Canada) in 1980, Info-Cult: Centre for Assistance and for the Study of Cultic Phenomena, is a nonprofit charitable organization. Financed by the Quebec government’s Ministry of Health and Social Services as well as by contributions from individual donors, the organization provides help and information about groups, their ideologies and their structures. It houses one of the most important documentation centres specialized in this area. Being the only organization of its kind in Canada, Info-Cult also offers support and guidance services to former members of groups or their loved ones.

Info-Cult aims to promote the dignity and integrity of the individual, respect for individual and collective rights, freedom of thought and expression, and the right to access information.

In accordance with its charter, Info-Cult’s mandate is to:

• promote the study of cultic phenomena;
• sensitize, inform and educate the public about these phenomena;
• assist people with problems related to these phenomena.

Its perspective focuses on the understanding of the processes of engagement in and exit from various groups. Info-Cult pays particular attention to terminology being used and values a nuanced analysis that considers the internal and external group dynamics.

This approach allows it to better:

• understand the individuality of experiences;
• identify and understand settings that may involve risks of harm;
• equip individuals to face their own challenges;
• support individuals in the understanding of their experiences.