Canada's approach to refugee claims has several fundamental strengths, notably the refugee determination process. However, the rising numbers of people driven from their homes around the world to our doorstep demands more than stopgap measures. The lack of a coordinated response from all three levels of government fails those who have a right to asylum, puts local governments and community groups in short-term reaction mode, and leaves Canadians shocked and upset that so many claimants end up homeless in a country that prides itself on its openness to refugees.
People in Canada are increasingly being told that refugee claimants are causing a “crisis”— a situation Canada is unable to handle. This is simply not the case. Our country has the infrastructure, the know-how and the resources. With some key adjustments to the infrastructure in place and a proactive mindset, governments together with civil society can repurpose what already exists, redirect wasteful expenses, and replicate what we know works, so that those fleeing persecution are treated fairly and set up for success in Canada.
The vast majority of those seeking refugee status in Canada after their arrival (over 70 percent in 2023) are ultimately determined to be refugees fleeing persecution. However, they must navigate a bureaucratic maze for two years or more, often without legal counsel, making their way with no orientation and little assistance. To find short and long-term housing, employment, a lawyer, even to register their children in school, they are left on their own, turning an already disorienting first days, months or years in Canada into a nightmare.
The CCR launched on April 4, a call to the government to implement a National System for Asylum with Dignity for Refugee Claimants. To support the call, we have produced a brief in which we identify five key areas for federal action.
| Read our Policy Brief | Watch our press conference |
Please join our call for the implementation of this National Plan and use the form below to write a letter to the Prime Minister, Minister Miller and your MP.