Refugee Reform: What's the Story

CRWRC Newsroom | April 21, 2010

For the past 30 years, Christian Reformed churches have been helping refugees and refugee families build a new life for themselves in Canada. Through work CRWRC has done with local congregations and diaconates, thousands of refugees have come to Canada. This history of working with refugees has often led to working with partners from across the country and advocating for changes to improve the refugee system.

Now is another critical time for action. The Canadian government recently tabled legislation (Bill C-11) to reform the refugee system. The lack of full consultation prior to the announcement of the bill must be rectified in upcoming discussion and debate.

Some issues that refugee advocates have long requested from the government are addressed in this bill. This is a cause for celebration and shows that the persistent pursuit of justice yields results. Along with these positive steps, there are also areas of grave concern. These issues demand further clarification and consultation, with the end result being a refugee system that does not compromise justice for any refugee. 

•  “Safe country” of origin - There has been a lot of discussion of a “safe country” designation since the bill was announced. The word “safe” is not actually mentioned in the bill and instead the bill talks of “designated countries of origin.” Excluding the word safe is significant, as is the fact that the bill doesn’t mention the requirements by which a country, area of a country, or people group within a country may be designated. A country may be safe for most of its citizens, but not for all. The potential for a country where human rights abuses are suffered to be named and placed on a list such as this, for either political or diplomatic reasons, is unacceptable. The designation of safe countries should not be used; rather refugee determination should occur on a case by case basis.
• Resource allocation - It is clear that the government will be putting more resources into the refugee system, but the question remains whether or not this money will effectively address all of the necessary issues. Refugee advocates have said that simply increasing the resources to the current system could alleviate many of the issues. That said, any resources allocated through this new legislation should be used in the areas where needed most. 
• Expedited hearings - The increased speed which refugees claims will be dealt with (interview within 8 days and hearing within 60 days) are being touted by the government as moves that will greatly speed up the system. Many are concerned that it is too fast. It will be very difficult for refugees to gather the necessary documents to prove their claims. Often refugees arrive in Canada incredibly traumatized by their experiences, making it difficult to develop the trust necessary for them to disclose their stories in such a short period of time. It is important that the refugee system provide adequate time for refugees to gather documents and prepare.

Some concerns fall outside the scope of the bill.

• Unfair and inaccurate language - While not directly a feature of this legislation, many refugee advocates are concerned about the language that has been used in recent years in relation to refugees. Using terms such as “bogus claims” or people who “abuse” the system are unfair and simplify an incredibly complex situation. People may have compelling reasons for leaving their country and yet not meet the narrow, legal definition of what a refugee is. This does not make a claim bogus or a claimant an abuser.
• Increase in number of refugees accepted - Though announcements around Bill C-11 have included mention of increased numbers of refugees being resettled in Canada from overseas, it is not actually a legislated component of the bill. This increase is linked to the passage of the bill, but is not part of it. This sets up a system where dealing with refugees from overseas is linked with passing legislation that isn’t necessarily fair for claimants in Canada. All refugees must be treated equally and the two groups should not be played against each other. This increase should be instituted immediately, working to clear the immense overseas backlog, rather than waiting until the legislation is passed.
• This bill really only addresses half the refugee system. CRWRC works with churches and the government to sponsor refugees from overseas, many of whom have been living in refugee camps or urban centres for long periods, awaiting word on their status. Bill C-11 primarily addresses refugees who are already in Canada, claiming refugee status. For example, the new Refugee Appeal Division does not apply to overseas refugees whose claims have been refused. Any bill that addresses half the system cannot solve the whole problem.

What you can do

Let your Member of Parliament know, either through a letter or a visit, what concerns you about this legislation. Click here to find information about your MP. 

• Make it personal by sharing the experiences you may have had working with refugees.
• Talk about the need for consultation with refugee advocates and experts. 
• Let them know that you favour reforms to the system, but reforms that are fair to all refugees.
• Ask for clarity around “designated countries of origin,” while also noting your concern about the implications of this portion of the proposed legislation.

Learn more. The Canadian Council for Refugees has a comprehensive collection of opinion and action on this issue.

We have included a sample letter in this section for you to use. Use it as a tool for writing your own letter. Letters that are personalized with your own experiences are far more effective. Remember that postage is not necessary when sending letters to your MP.

Please let us know if you have taken action. We’d love to hear what you have done or see a copy of your letter. Let Rose Dekker know at rdekker@crwrc.org.

If you have further questions about refugee issues or sponsorship, contact Rose Dekker or Rebecca Walker. For further information on advocacy, contact Mike Hogeterp.