Author: Azadeh Haidari-Garmash, RCIC
Canada Pioneers Refugee Stream for Human Rights Defenders
July 16, 2021—Ottawa—The pivotal role of human rights defenders in advocating for and safeguarding the rights of individuals across the globe cannot be overstated. These courageous individuals often place their own safety on the line to expose injustices and hold those in power accountable.
Canada, a nation known for its robust tradition of offering sanctuary to those in peril, demonstrated its leadership by resettling nearly one-third of the world's refugees in 2020. In a significant move to reinforce this commitment, the Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, unveiled a specialized refugee stream today. This initiative aims to provide a secure refuge for human rights defenders fleeing persecution.
A New Pathway for Human Rights Defenders
Canada is set to become one of the first countries to offer a dedicated, permanent pathway for human rights defenders. Under this initiative, up to 250 human rights defenders, along with their families, will be resettled annually through the Government-Assisted Refugees Program.
The program will be executed in collaboration with international partners, including:
- Front Line Defenders
- ProtectDefenders.eu
- United Nations Refugee Agency
These alliances will be pivotal in identifying human rights defenders who are at risk and require resettlement, particularly focusing on those at heightened risk, such as women, journalists, and members of the LGBTQ2 community.
A Global Call for Action
The international community, comprising experts and advocates, has long championed the need for targeted protection measures for human rights defenders. With this announcement, Canada is not only responding to this call but is also setting a precedent by offering a permanent residency pathway for those who cannot safely return to their home countries.
This initiative reflects Canada's enduring commitment to human rights and its readiness to provide tangible solutions for those who strive to protect them, often under perilous conditions. As Canada steps into this pioneering role, it offers a beacon of hope and a model for others to follow, reinforcing the fundamental belief that every defender of human rights deserves protection and a safe place to call home.
In a world where the voice of the vulnerable often goes unheard, Canada’s new refugee stream stands as a testament to the power of solidarity and the unwavering commitment to justice and human dignity.
