Canada Reinforces Commitment to Global Asylum Efforts

Ottawa, September 1, 2022—The Canadian Government remains resolutely committed to safeguarding the world's most vulnerable populations. Amidst persistent challenges in accessing international protection, Canada is steadfast in its mission to forge clear pathways to safety for those in dire need.

Leadership in MIRPS

As a key player in the Comprehensive Regional Protection and Solutions Framework (MIRPS), Canada is poised to bolster asylum system capacity in Central America and Mexico. This initiative underscores its dedication to enhancing regional protection mechanisms.

The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, today reaffirmed Canada's unwavering support for the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR). Over the next two years, Canada will spearhead three pivotal capacity-building projects aimed at strengthening asylum processing capabilities across the Americas.

Project Initiatives

1. Mexican Commission for Refugees Assistance Enhancement
   The first undertaking will empower the Mexican Commission for Refugees Assistance by expanding its ability to process asylum seekers in secure, private environments. This includes deploying mobile asylum claim offices to regions experiencing surges in claims or augmenting the capacity of existing offices.

2. Digitization and Efficient Processing in Mexico
   The second initiative focuses on increasing the Commission’s capacity for handling asylum claims. By supporting ongoing digitization of case files, Canada aims to accelerate processing times, reduce the risk of data loss, and ensure asylum seekers are kept informed about their case status in a timely manner.

3. Strengthening Asylum Systems in Central America
   The third project targets Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Honduras, providing critical technical and operational support to national authorities. Efforts will concentrate on reducing claim backlogs, training immigration officials on country of origin information, and facilitating the exchange of best practices among asylum and immigration personnel.

A Broader Commitment

Canada's support for these initiatives reflects its enduring commitment as a member of the MIRPS Support Platform, striving to deliver protection and devise solutions for those in need. By fostering collaboration with partner countries, international financial bodies, the private sector, and regional organizations, Canada is dedicated to securing sustainable and predictable support for refugees and the communities that welcome them.

Through these concerted efforts, Canada continues to uphold its humanitarian obligations and reinforces its position as a global leader in the protection of asylum seekers, ensuring that hope and safety remain within reach for countless individuals across the Americas.