Canada’s refugee system has undergone significant changes since the 2015 response to the Syrian crisis. Originally, the federal government facilitated the rapid resettlement of 25,000 Syrian refugees in just 100 days. This unprecedented program involved expediting refugee identification, visa processing, and transportation coordination. Chris Friesen, CEO of the Immigrant Services Society of British Columbia, recalls the overwhelming public support during this time.
Current Challenges in Canada’s Refugee System
Over the past decade, the conditions for current refugees differ vastly from those of 2015. Many settlement workers and advocates are expressing concern regarding the slow pace of today’s refugee processing. Former refugee Amal Kago, who came to Canada in 2003, noted that the experience of sponsoring a vulnerable woman recently was laborious and took nearly five years, contrasting sharply with her own experience, which was much quicker.
Statistics Reflecting System Changes
The Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada reported a staggering increase in pending refugee claims from 9,999 in 2015 to 295,819 by September 30, 2025. This growth demonstrates the mounting pressures on the refugee system.
Increased Processing Times
Processing times for refugee applications have surged. Applications that once took one and a half to two years to process under the MOSAIC non-profit organization now often extend to four years. This significant uptick affects applicants regardless of their origin, whether from Africa, the Middle East, or Europe.
Government Response and Legislative Changes
In January 2024, Canada introduced a special measures program for sponsoring extended family members in Gaza. This program quickly reached its capacity of 5,000 applications, but only 880 individuals had arrived in Canada as of July 29, 2024. Concerns about the refugee process have been exacerbated by government announcements, including a pause on two of the three refugee sponsorship methods.
Proposed Legislative Adjustments
As part of evolving policies, Ottawa is considering new legislation under the Strong Borders Act. Critics warn these adjustments may hinder vulnerable populations from seeking refuge and may complicate their status further. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has defended these proposed changes, claiming they would enhance the integrity and efficiency of the immigration system.
Calls for Support and Change
- Community leaders like Rasha Youssef and Hamoudi Saleh Baratta are voicing their dissatisfaction with current conditions.
- Both Kago and Youssef have noted significant funding cuts for organizations that assist refugees.
- Kago emphasizes the need for political commitment to humanitarian efforts without political bias.
The evolving landscape of Canada’s refugee system since 2015 significantly impacts both newcomers and the communities that support them. The continuing dialogue around legislative reforms and resource allocation is crucial for ensuring that Canada remains a safe haven for those in need.
