Canadian Refugee Claimants Reveal the Lack of Access to Immigrant Social Services
Refugee claimants are legally, financially and socially, one of the most unprotected classes in Canada. And while there are many immigrant services available, many would be surprised to find out that even immigrant services discriminate. Refugee claimants, or asylum seekers, do not have the same access to social services as refugees who have received their status from the government, leaving them highly susceptible to food insecurity.
First, I should clarify the difference between a refugee claimant and a refugee. According to the Canadian Council for Refugees, a refugee claimant (or asylum seeker) is “a person who has fled their country and is asking for protection in another country.”
A refugee is “a person who is forced to flee from persecution and who is located outside of their home county.” A person remains a refugee claimant until a decision is made on their case and they are granted refugee status. This process can take years, in some cases, up to a decade. And, if a refugee claimant gives birth within this time frame, their children are not granted Canadian citizenship despite being born in Canada – the child, therefore, falls victim to their parent’s status.
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By
Afros in the City
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Published
Feb 02, 2023
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Subject Area
- Intercultural/Interfaith/Interlingual; Immigrants, Refugees, and Other Newcomers
- Safety, Security, Finances, & Personal Planning
- Social Connectedness / Social Isolation
- Food Security and Nutritional Supports
- Non-profit / Charitable sector
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Audience
- Service Providers (Non-profits, Community Organizations, Local government)
- Caregivers, Seniors & Volunteers
- Government
- Government (Politicians, Policy Makers) and Health Authorities
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Category
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