Canada, well-known for its stance on immigrants and refugees, recently enacted a deal to deter asylum seekers from the U.S. Initially, the strategy seemed to work. In just a few days, the number of individuals trying to cross the border unofficially dramatically dropped.
However, a closer inspection a few months later paints a different picture. There has been a marked rise in the number of people lodging refugee claims within the Canadian borders. The patterns of their entries have evolved. Many now enter the country by airways, while some stealthily make their way across the border, biding their time until they feel it’s safe to submit their asylum applications.
Navigating Policy Changes and Realities on the Ground
The country’s primary concern was managing the ever-growing number of asylum seekers. In the previous year, more than 39,000 individuals entered Canada through unauthorised routes, mainly from a well-trodden path off Roxham Road in New York, leading into Quebec. This surge concerned the province as they struggled to process and provide for these arrivals.
In light of this, Canada, in collaboration with the United States, modified the Safe Third Country Agreement in March. Previously applicable only at designated ports of entry, the pact now covers the entirety of the 4,000-mile land border the countries share. The following months saw a stark decline in those intercepted at informal crossings. However, Canada’s number of asylum seekers has witnessed an unexpected surge.
Seeking Shelter Amidst Global Crises
The reasons for this spike in numbers are multifaceted. More and more individuals submit refugee claims at airports or local immigration offices, sometimes days or months after arriving in the country. This trend is evident from the statistics, with the number of people applying at airports nearly doubling between March and July.
Several factors might explain the inflow. Wars, climate change-induced disruptions, and human rights breaches worldwide force many to look for safer havens. Canada remains among the few countries still perceived as welcoming to refugees in this global scenario. This sentiment is juxtaposed with the changing stance of countries like the European Union and the U.S., which have tightened their asylum policies.
While Canada aims to manage its border crossings, the narratives of those seeking refuge highlight a deeper, more personal struggle. Whether fleeing domestic abuse, war, or persecution due to sexual orientation, many see Canada as their sanctuary. However, the changing dynamics at the Canadian border means that now the asylum system might inadvertently favour those who can obtain a visa and flight ticket, leaving some of the most vulnerable still in dire straits.
This development has caused some experts to question the fairness and equity of the system. Still, the gratitude and relief are palpable for those who have found shelter within Canada’s borders.
*Additional news input was taken from Reuters
