Refugee Pathway for Human Rights Defenders Introduced by Minister Mendicino

From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

Introduction of a New Refugee Stream

Human rights defenders play a crucial role in safeguarding the rights of individuals worldwide, often at great personal risk. Canada has a storied history of offering protection to those in danger, welcoming almost a third of all resettled refugees globally in 2020.

In a groundbreaking move, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Marco E. L. Mendicino, announced a specific refugee stream for human rights defenders fleeing persecution. With this initiative, Canada becomes one of the pioneers in providing a permanent resettlement pathway for these individuals and their families, aiming to support up to 250 resettlements annually under the Government-Assisted Refugees Program.

Collaborative Efforts for Protection

Canada will collaborate with organizations like Front Line Defenders, ProtectDefenders.eu, and the United Nations Refugee Agency to identify human rights defenders in urgent need of refuge. This initiative focuses on those at heightened risk, including women, journalists, and LGBTQ2 defenders, offering them a secure pathway to permanent residency.

International Recognition and Support

The international community has urged for dedicated measures to protect human rights advocates. Canada’s new stream not only aligns with this call but also provides a vital lifeline for defenders who cannot safely return home.

Perspectives from Leaders

“Human rights defenders expose violations and tell crucial stories, often at significant personal risk. Canada’s new refugee stream offers protection and a safe home to these courageous individuals, reflecting our values as a nation.” – The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino

“Front Line Defenders applauds Canada’s dedicated refugee stream for human rights defenders. While many seek to continue their work within their countries, those facing extreme danger need asylum. This initiative will be a lifeline for those who’ve risked everything for human rights.” – Andrew Anderson, Front Line Defenders

“Supporting human rights defenders involves ensuring they have safe resettlement options. Canada’s commitment to providing such support is excellent news, and we anticipate a productive partnership.” – Gerald Staberock, ProtectDefenders.eu

Key Information

• Human rights defenders advocate nonviolently for human rights and freedoms globally.
• These defenders face threats such as arbitrary arrest, torture, and assassination.
• Canada’s “Voices at Risk” guidelines, introduced in 2019, aim to support human rights advocates.
• The 2020–2022 Immigration Levels Plan includes 250 additional spaces for this refugee stream.

Additional Resources

• Backgrounder – Protection for Human Rights Defenders
• Front Line Defenders
• ProtectDefenders.eu
• Voices at Risk: Supporting Human Rights Defenders
• Canada’s Refugee System
• 2021–2023 Immigration Levels Plan

Contact Information

Media Inquiries:

Alex Cohen
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064

Media Relations:

Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca

To reach Front Line Defenders:
Andrew Anderson
Executive Director
resettlement@frontlinedefenders.org

Frequently Asked Questions

Who qualifies as a human rights defender?

Human rights defenders are those who nonviolently promote and strive for the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms on a national or international level.

What risks do human rights defenders face?

They often endure persecution from state and non-state actors, including threats, torture, and even assassination.

How many human rights defenders will Canada resettle annually?

The new refugee stream plans to resettle up to 250 human rights defenders and their families each year.

For further details, Read our immigration guide.