Canada Commemorates 40 Years of Refugee Sponsorship

From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

News Release

On the 40th anniversary of Canada’s Private Sponsorship of Refugees Program, Canadians are recognized for their significant efforts in offering a safe refuge to vulnerable refugees globally.

More Than 327,000 Refugees Welcomed to Canada

April 9, 2019 – Ottawa, ON – Celebrating four decades, Canada’s Private Sponsorship of Refugees Program highlights the nation’s commitment to providing sanctuary to those in need. This program has set a precedent, inspiring countries worldwide.

Since its inception, Canadian communities, organizations, and individuals have played a pivotal role in welcoming over 327,000 refugees. This established program is among the oldest and most renowned globally.

Before 2016, Canada was unique in offering such a program. Thanks to the Global Refugee Sponsorship Initiative, nations like Argentina, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, Spain, and Germany have started or are exploring similar sponsorship programs.

Quotes

“Thank you to all Canadians for opening both their hearts and homes to welcome more than 327,000 refugees over the last four decades from coast to coast to coast. We can all take pride in the example Canadians set for the world. It is truly emblematic of the character of Canadians and the fabric of our great country”.

– The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

Quick Facts

• The Private Sponsorship of Refugees Program began in 1978, marking the first time Canadians actively participated in refugee resettlement.
• In the aftermath of the Vietnam War, over 60,000 individuals found safety in Canada between 1979 and 1980, with more than half supported by private sponsors.
• From 1980 onwards, more than 160 communities have embraced privately sponsored refugees from over 175 countries.
• More than half of the 62,000 Syrian refugees resettled in Canada since 2015 were privately sponsored.
• The Global Refugee Sponsorship Initiative, launched in 2016, aims to boost global refugee resettlement, fortify host communities, and enhance the narrative around refugees by involving governments and citizens in sponsorship efforts.

Associated Links

• Backgrounder: By the numbers – 40 years of Canada’s Private Sponsorship of Refugees Program
• Thank You Canada
• Global Refugee Sponsorship Initiative

Contacts

Contacts for media only

Mathieu Genest
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

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