Canada’s role in accepting refugees in 2024
As of 2024, Canada’s role in accepting refugees remains pivotal, as the country continues to prioritize humanitarian efforts amidst global crises. Canada has long been recognized for its robust refugee resettlement programs and compassionate immigration in Canada policies, making it a global leader in providing sanctuary for those fleeing conflict and persecution.
In 2023, Canada experienced a record surge in asylum claims, receiving around 146,800 new claims, positioning the country as the fifth-highest in the world for refugee and asylum claims. This marked a significant increase from 2022, when Canada processed approximately **91,710 claims**, further demonstrating the country’s ongoing commitment to humanitarian relief. This upward trend is largely attributed to the growing number of conflicts and humanitarian crises around the globe, which has driven more people to seek safety in countries like Canada.
The provinces of Quebec and Ontario continue to lead in processing asylum claims. Between January and September 2023, Quebec handled 47,345 claims, while Ontario processed 39,825 claims. Together, these two provinces accounted for the majority of asylum claims in Canada. British Columbia and Alberta also processed a substantial number of claims, but the figures remained significantly lower compared to Quebec and Ontario.
read more: What happens after you claim asylum?
Since 1980, Canada has welcomed over 1.08 million refugees, reinforcing its status as a leader in refugee resettlement. By September 2023, 96,450 asylum claims had been processed, reflecting Canada’s growing role in addressing global displacement. Importantly, 72% of asylum-seekers were granted Refugee Process status in 2023, illustrating Canada’s unwavering commitment to offering protection and resettlement opportunities to vulnerable individuals.
In March 2023, changes to the Safe Third Country Agreement (STCA) between Canada and the United States significantly impacted irregular border crossings. The expanded agreement, which now covers the entire land border, led to a notable decline in irregular entries from the U.S. This policy shift highlights Canada’s effort to balance border security with its humanitarian obligations.
Looking ahead, Canada’s role in accepting refugees in 2024 is expected to remain crucial as the country continues to provide protection and resettlement pathways to thousands of displaced individuals. With increasing global instability, Canada will likely see a sustained demand for asylum, reaffirming its position as a key player in global refugee protection.
For more in-depth statistics and information on Canada’s refugee efforts, reports from organizations such as the UNHCR and Canadian government agencies offer valuable insights into the country’s ongoing contributions to the global refugee crisis.
