Cover: Photo by Steffen Ruder on Unsplash
In recent years, global security conditions have become increasingly unstable due to political conflicts, climate change, and economic disparities, resulting in a significant influx of migrants seeking safety and stability. As a result, Canada has witnessed a substantial influx of migrants seeking stability and refuge. However, due to the current situation in the Middle East, more refugees are predicted to arrive. As a progressive nation with a strong commitment to humanitarian values, Canada, particularly British Columbia (BC), plays a crucial role in addressing and accommodating this challenge. This paper examines the preparedness of the Canadian government and the provincial government of British Columbia (BC) to address this challenge and tackle this situation. It outlines current policies, identifies gaps in the existing framework, and proposes strategic recommendations for improving migrant integration and support systems. While emphasizing a collaborative approach involving local communities, non-governmental organizations, and international partners, the paper aims to provide a comprehensive roadmap for enhancing the resilience of Canadian society in the face of increasing migration pressures.
Key Words. Global Security, Canada, British Columbia, Migrants, Preparedness, Policies
Global wars and humanitarian emergencies have propelled record levels of migration, transforming societies and the international landscape. Over the past few years, there has been a surge in the number of people fleeing violence, persecution, and natural disasters. Canada has emerged as a haven of hope, guaranteeing a refuge for asylum seekers. As one of Canada's most ethnically diverse provinces, British Columbia faces unique challenges and opportunities in addressing this influx. As international security circumstances continue to spiral out of control as a result of several issues, such as political instability, armed conflict, climate change, and economic woes, migration has become a real
Challenge for many nations. Canada, which prides itself on its open-arm policy towards immigrants and refugees, is faced with a growing tide of migrants fleeing danger and insecurity. This paper aims to assess the readiness of the Canadian government and the British Columbia provincial government (BC) to address this ongoing issue and provide strategic recommendations to enhance their response mechanisms in light of existing global realities. This paper outlines the current situation of migrants, the preparedness of the Canadian government alongside the province of British Columbia, and the collaborative measures necessary to sustain successful integration.
Global Migration Trends
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) estimated that there were more than 26 million refugees worldwide as of 2021, a figure that continues to rise due to ongoing global instability (UNHCR, 2021). Armed conflicts, climate change, and socioeconomic unrest are some of the contributing factors (World Bank, 2022). Additionally, these factors are leading to forced immigration.
Canada's Migration Framework
Over the past few years, Canada has witnessed a significant increase in the number of refugees and asylum seekers. Canada has a long tradition of welcoming refugees and immigrants, which is deeply rooted in its immigration policies (Government of Canada, 2022). Canada's immigration policy is based on the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), which was passed in 2001. The structure outlines how refugees are to be processed, enabling the country to meet its humanitarian commitments (Government of Canada, 2021). Provincial governments, such as those in BC, have also developed their approaches to integrating newcomers. Statistics Canada (2023) reports that in 2021 alone, Canada admitted more than 401,000 new permanent residents, of which refugees made up a considerable number (IRCC, 2021). This influx is in line with rising global crises, including political instability in Afghanistan following the U.S. withdrawal, protracted conflicts in Syria, and desperate humanitarian crises in Central America and Sub-Saharan Africa (UNHCR, 2023).
British Columbia has numerous immigrant groups, making it an interesting place to look at migration patterns. It has been a draw for immigrants due to its mixed economy, lifestyle, and excellent social services. The province has implemented several programs and initiatives that cater to migrants, such as language training, job services, and mental health services. However, the rise in new entrants has strained these services, necessitating a comprehensive analysis of the system and recommendations for modification. According to Statistics Canada (2022), nearly 30% of the population in BC is foreign-born, presenting both challenges and opportunities in managing the influx of new migrants. The government of British Columbia has implemented numerous initiatives to support the integration of migrants. Initiatives like the BC Settlement and Integration Program (BCSIP) help newcomers tap into essential services (BC Government, 2021). Data sharing and technology allow for more effective agency coordination (BC Government, 2022).
1. Support Programs: Organizations like MOSAIC in British Columbia offer programs to assist migrant workers. These initiatives provide education on workplace rights and access to essential services, ensuring migrants are informed and supported in their new environment. https://mosaicbc.org/our-programs/support-for-migrant-workers-and-employers/
Canadian Government Strategies and Preparedness
1. Federal Policies and Programs. The Canadian government's migration policies encompass integrated frameworks that include settlement services, access to healthcare, and community support programs. Federal committees continually evaluate the effectiveness of programs in responding to the evolving needs of migrants (Government of Canada, 2023). https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/departmental-plan-2023-2024/departmental-plan.html
2. Intergovernmental Collaboration. Federal-provincial cooperation is vital to efficient resource management and program delivery. One outstanding project supported by both levels of government is the British Columbia Refugee Resettlement Strategy, which provides an adequate safety net for newcomers (BC Government, 2021). https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/departmental-plan-2023-2024/departmental-plan.html
3. Immigration Levels Plan: The 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan has established permanent resident ranges of 395,000 for 2025, which will decline over the following years. The plan prioritizes economic immigration, family sponsorship, and refugees, focusing on sustainable growth and financial success. https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/notices/supplementary-immigration-levels-2025-2027.html
4. Enhanced Border Security: The Canadian government has unveiled a $1.3 billion plan to upgrade border security and fortify immigration systems. It involves sending drones, Black Hawk helicopters, and high-tech detection equipment to block illegal crossings and boost border patrol efforts. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-safety-canada/news/2024/12/government-of-canada-announces-its-plan-to-strengthen-border-security-and-our-immigration-system.html
Study Permit Cap: To control the number of international students, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has imposed a limit of 505,162 study permit applications for the 2025 calendar year. Applications over this limit will not be accepted. https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/notices/2025-provincial-territorial-allocations-under-international-student-cap.html
Community Engagement Strategies
1. Involvement of NGOs and the Private Sector. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in BC play a pivotal role in delivering migrant services. Community organizations, such as the Immigrant Services Society of BC, collaborate with the government to serve newcomers through various programs (ISS of BC, 2022). Engaging the private sector through employment fairs and mentorship programs can also increase job placement. https://issbc.org/
2. Public Awareness Campaigns: Building awareness within local communities about the struggles of migrants can create a more inclusive atmosphere. Public service advertisements on multiculturalism and diversity, such as "We All Belong," encourage people to unite and understand one another (Council of BC, 2022). https://inclusionbc.org/everybody-belongs-may-2022/
3. Building Resilience: Building resilience among migrants and host communities requires capacity-building programs. Training service providers and community members in cultural competency promote a tolerant environment, facilitating mutual adaptation and integration (BC Government, 2023).
Challenges Faced by the Canadian Government and BC
1. Capacity and Resource Constraints: Urban communities such as Vancouver, as well as local communities in general, are facing capacity in terms of housing, schools, and health services. Sudden arrival in large numbers puts pressure on already existing resources, thus failing to meet the migrants' needs when they are most needed (British Columbia Ministry of Children and Family Development, 2022). https://www.researchgate.net/publication/380302916_Settlement_and_Rental_Housing_Experiences_Among_Recent_Immigrants_in_the_Suburbs_of_Vancouver_Burnaby_Richmond_and_Surrey
2. Social Integration and Cohesion: Migrants' integration into Canadian society presents opportunities and challenges. Rising anti-immigrant sentiments, fueled by economic anxieties and misinformation, can strain social cohesion. Public perception plays a crucial role in shaping the integration experience for newcomers (CIC, 2022). https://www.iom.int/resources/integration-and-social-cohesion-key-elements-reaping-benefits-migration
3. Mental Health and Trauma: Most migrants come with severe mental health issues stemming from trauma, displacement, and loss. Inadequate access to mental health services, however, continues to be a challenge, especially for non-English or French-speaking migrants (Mental Health Commission of Canada, 2023). https://mentalhealthcommission.ca/ https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-and-forced-displacement
4. Legal and Procedural Delays: Processing delays for refugee claims can negatively affect newcomers' emotional well-being and economic stability, leading to precarious living conditions and uncertainty about their future (Canadian Council for Refugees, 2022) https://ccrweb.ca/en/resolutions
5. Navigating Resource Limitations: Identifying resource gaps in support is, therefore, critical. Funding shortages and overstretched services can hinder migrants' successful integration. Service needs should be regularly assessed, and funds allocated fairly (Canadian Council for Refugees, 2022). https://ehab-badwi.medium.com/integration-and-participation-of-refugees-and-migrants-building-inclusive-societies-9b806ef772c0
6. Addressing Mental Health Needs: Migrants usually grapple with psychological scars from trauma and barriers to adjusting to a new climate. Hence, mental health services should be prioritized to consider the needs of this population (Canadian Mental Health Association, 2022). https://cmha.ca/ https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/373279/9789240081840-eng.pdf?sequence=1
7. Long-term Integration Strategies: Emphasizing long-term integration over temporary solutions will lead to sustainable outcomes. Investing in language training, vocational programs, and housing services will enhance migrants' prospects for success (CIC, 2023). https://migrant-integration.ec.europa.eu/special-feature/what-measures-are-place-ensure-long-term-integration-migrants-and-refugees-europe_en
Global insecurity has led to mass migration, with the possibility of forced displacement. Canadian government authorities and the British Columbia province face a crossroads in addressing the needs of newcomers. Through strategic collaboration, community engagement, and unwavering dedication to holistic assistance, both government tiers can satisfactorily manage migrants' challenges. The policies developed should be visionary, flexible, inclusive, and sustainable, ultimately improving the lives of migrants and the host communities that welcome them.