Canada’s Immigration Reductions Risk Lives: Refugees Left Vulnerable
IRQR Calls for Exemption of Refugees in New Canadian Immigration Reductions
Toronto, October 25, 2024
The International Railroad for Queer Refugees (IRQR) expresses deep concern regarding the Canadian government’s newly announced immigration reductions for 2025-2027. While we understand the challenges posed by housing and public service demands, the policy raises serious concerns for refugees whose lives remain in jeopardy due to delays in Canada’s immigration processing pipeline. Canada’s commitment to protecting the world’s most vulnerable, including human rights defenders, women, ethnic minorities, and LGBTQ+ refugees, is now in question.
The government has emphasized reductions in permanent resident targets and temporary resident entries but remains unclear on specific impacts for refugees and protected persons. Over recent years, leniency in visitor and work permits led to an influx of individuals with no intent to return. The government also permitted universities to enroll increasing numbers of international students over Canadian residents, prioritizing financial gains over sustainable growth. This sudden shift now disproportionately affects refugees awaiting resettlement, even as these issues stem from the government’s own policy decisions.
“Refugees should not be penalized for policy oversights and the prioritization of other temporary entrants,” said Arsham Parsi, Executive Director of IRQR. “Our humanitarian commitments as a nation are at risk. Canada has a responsibility to protect, not abandon, vulnerable individuals who rely on our system for safety and a chance at life.”
IRQR urges the Canadian government to exempt refugees and protected persons from these new limitations. Refugees are not merely numbers; they are people with immediate, pressing needs, often escaping persecution, violence, and life-threatening conditions. Canada must uphold its commitment to save lives rather than put them in greater danger.
IRQR calls upon the Canadian government to:
- Exempt refugees and protected persons from the recently announced reductions.
- Prioritize the safety and resettlement of refugees, particularly those delayed in the Canadian immigration process.
- Remain committed to Canada’s long-standing mandate to resettle the world’s most vulnerable, including human rights defenders, LGBTQI+ refugees, religious and ethnic minorities, and women and children in precarious situations, in all decisions impacting immigration policy.
International Railroad for Queer Refugees
INFO@IRQR.CA
416-985-7456
