Canada Leads in Refugee Resettlement: New Initiatives to Enhance Economic Mobility

Ottawa, December 13, 2022—In a world grappling with an unprecedented global refugee crisis, Canada continues to set the benchmark for refugee resettlement and integration. Last year, Canada resettled more refugees than any other nation, solidifying its status as a leader in this humanitarian effort. However, the escalating crisis demands further action. In response, Canada is advancing a groundbreaking initiative—labour complementary pathways—to provide refugees and their families with safe and permanent opportunities beyond traditional resettlement.

Expansion of the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP)

During a pivotal meeting in Ottawa, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, unveiled new funding strategies aimed at broadening Canada's Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP). This initiative seeks to integrate more skilled refugees into the Canadian workforce. Over the coming years, Canada plans to collaborate with employers and communities nationwide to scale the pilot, with the goal of welcoming 2,000 skilled refugees. These individuals will help address critical labour shortages in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, skilled trades, and information technology.

Connecting Refugees with Employment Opportunities

The EMPP facilitates connections between skilled refugees abroad and Canadian employers who urgently need to fill roles in occupations like nurse aides, personal support workers, chefs, cooks, and various skilled trades. Once candidates secure job offers, they can apply to immigrate to Canada through existing economic programs. Notably, EMPP measures are designed to alleviate barriers refugees may face due to their displacement.

Streamlined Processes and Support for Candidates

To simplify the application process for qualified candidates, Canada is implementing a new, flexible approach in collaboration with trusted partners. Organizations such as Talent Beyond Boundaries, TalentLift, and Jumpstart Refugee Talent will have the authority to directly refer and support candidates. These partners will undergo mandatory training and quality assurance reviews to ensure they are equipped for their roles.

Financial Support and Capacity Building

Canada is committing $6.2 million to fund six projects spearheaded by EMPP partner organizations. These projects aim to enhance the organizations' capabilities in critical areas, including identifying skilled candidates overseas and providing comprehensive support to both candidates and employers during the interview, hiring, and immigration processes. Additionally, funding will bolster efforts to offer affordable microloans to EMPP newcomers.

Global Leadership in Refugee Labour Mobility

As the inaugural chair of the Global Task Force on Refugee Labour Mobility, Canada is not only strengthening its domestic initiatives but also driving global momentum towards expanding complementary labour pathways. This commitment underscores Canada's proactive approach in addressing the refugee crisis, setting a precedent for international collaboration and innovation in refugee resettlement strategies.

Canada's initiatives embody a forward-thinking vision, ensuring that refugees are not only welcomed but also empowered to thrive in their new communities. As these efforts unfold, Canada continues to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to humanitarian leadership and economic inclusivity on a global scale.