Title: Canada’s Efforts to Reduce Asylum Seekers Yield Mixed Results
Word Count: 369
In recent years, Canada has been grappling with a rise in asylum seekers entering the country, despite efforts to discourage such crossings. A deal struck between Canada and the United States initially showed promise in reducing the number of asylum seekers but ultimately proved insufficient. As a result, the number of refugee claims has actually increased rather than decreased.
One of the key trends observed is the shift in how asylum seekers are entering Canada. Many are now opting to arrive by air or cross the border in hiding before applying for asylum. Last year alone, over 39,000 asylum seekers entered Canada through unofficial crossings, with Quebec experiencing the most significant influx.
To combat this ongoing challenge, Canada aims to welcome half a million new permanent residents by 2025. However, it remains committed to discouraging irregular asylum seekers. In March, both Canada and the U.S. amended their Safe Third Country Agreement, extending it beyond just official border crossings. This adjustment led to a notable decline in interceptions at informal crossings.
Nevertheless, despite these efforts, the total number of refugee claims increased considerably. In July, a record-breaking 12,010 refugee claims were filed, marking the highest monthly total since January 2017. Additionally, there has been a surge in the number of people filing refugee claims at airports and immigration offices.
Experts argue that Canada’s reputation as a safe haven, coupled with its efficient processing and acceptance of asylum applications compared to the U.S., has played a significant role in attracting asylum seekers. The country’s commitment to protecting human rights and offering refuge in the face of global pressures such as war, climate change, and human rights violations has further contributed to the surge in numbers.
Some individuals may be deliberately delaying their filing of claims to avoid being turned back under the expanded agreement with the U.S. Despite the agreement’s intention to address irregular crossings, certain individuals still attempt to enter undetected and hide until the mandatory two-week period elapses. As a result, smugglers exploit these vulnerable individuals, putting them at great risk.
Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the situation for many asylum seekers, leaving them with no choice but to sleep on the streets due to the lack of available beds in Toronto.
The closure of Canada’s land border has shifted the focus of the asylum system towards those who can obtain visas and plane tickets, leaving many vulnerable individuals unable to access the system and seek protection.
Canada’s ongoing reputation as a protector of human rights and a safe haven continues to attract asylum seekers despite efforts to discourage their irregular entry. Efforts to address this complex issue remain vital to ensure that all vulnerable individuals have equitable access to safety and protection.
