Thousands of detainees will be put on trial for fighting for ISIS abroad, including dozens of Canadians.



The trial was announced by local Kurdish authorities on Thursday after meeting with Finland’s foreign ministry.



“We explained our intention to set up a special court for ISIS to the Finnish government and asked for help from the legal and technical aspects, and that this trial be transparent and public,” said a statement.



According to the Rojava Information Centre, ISIS members convicted of crimes against humanity could face up to 20 years imprisonment or a life sentence.



Trials are expected to begin in March and the local administration is seeking help from international allies.



According to the Canadian government, 180 people have left the country to fight for extremist groups abroad. 60 are believed to have already returned to Canada.



Despite the high number of returnees, former minister of public safety Ralph Goodale confirmed that only four charges have been laid against the alleged terrorists.



An Ipsos poll shows that a majority of Canadians do not want the government to repatriate those who left the country to join ISIS.



The poll found that 71% of Canadians think Canada should “not do anything” to facilitate their return.



Only 29% of respondents thought that the government should help the ISIS fighters come back.

