Government of Canada Invests in Francophone Immigration Research
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
The Importance of Francophone Immigration in Canada
Francophone immigration significantly contributes to the growth and vitality of Francophone communities outside of Quebec. In pursuit of this, Canada aims to enhance its efforts to welcome more Francophone immigrants.
On November 8, 2023, in Toronto, Ontario, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced funding of nearly $85,000 for the Université de l’Ontario français. This funding supports the development of the Observatoire en immigration francophone au Canada, unveiled at the Centre francophone du Grand Toronto.
Funding and Its Impact
The investment will establish an oversight committee comprising university and community representatives. This committee will guide the observatory’s mission, objectives, and governance. The initiative addresses the research concerns related to Francophone immigration.
With enhanced insights into Francophone immigration, the Canadian government can better target its initiatives in this area. Part of the funding will be used for a survey to identify Francophone immigration research needs, ensuring the observatory’s research plan aligns with these priorities.
French-speaking immigrants enrich Canada’s cultural and linguistic landscape while bolstering local economies. Promoting Francophone immigration beyond Quebec remains a top priority for Canada.
Key Statements
“Francophone immigration plays a vital role in sustaining and expanding Francophone communities outside Quebec. The Observatoire en immigration francophone au Canada will enhance efforts to support Francophone immigrants’ reception and integration. This project exemplifies community collaboration in achieving our ambitious Francophone immigration goals to strengthen minority Francophone communities nationwide.” – The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
The Observatoire en immigration francophone will unify efforts in a critical area for Ontario and Canada’s Francophone future. It fulfills a crucial research need on migration dynamics within the Canadian Francophonie. Thanks to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada for supporting this initiative, championed by the Université de l’Ontario français in collaboration with Toronto Metropolitan University’s Research Chair in Migration and Integration and other community partners.” – Pierre Ouellette, President, Université de l’Ontario français
Noteworthy Information
- The research from the Observatoire en immigration francophone aims to dismantle barriers and increase French-speaking newcomers in minority Francophone communities.
- Announced on November 1, the 2024–2026 Immigration Levels Plan sets Francophone immigration targets at 6% for 2024, 7% for 2025, and 8% for 2026, based on evidence and stakeholder insights.
- On April 26, 2023, Canada unveiled the Action Plan for Official Languages 2023–2028: Protection-Promotion-Collaboration, investing over $137 million in official languages, with a focus on Francophone immigration.
- A key action plan measure is adopting a Francophone immigration policy with specific targets and indicators under the Official Languages Act. The policy, developed with provincial, territorial, and community input, will launch soon.
Associated Resources
- Stabilizing Canada’s immigration targets to support sustainable growth
- Modernization of the Official Languages Act
- Action Plan for Official Languages 2023–2028: Protection-Promotion-Collaboration
- Federal/Provincial/Territorial Action Plan for Increasing Francophone Immigration Outside of Quebec
- Francophone immigration (outside Quebec)
Contact Information
Bahoz Dara Aziz
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Bahoz.DaraAziz@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Sector
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
media@cic.gc.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Francophone immigration observatory?
The observatory seeks to enhance understanding and address the needs of Francophone immigration, guiding policy and community actions.
How will the funding support Francophone immigration?
The funding will establish a committee to guide the observatory’s mission and create surveys to align research with community and governmental needs.
What are Canada’s targets for Francophone immigration?
Canada aims for Francophone immigration targets of 6% in 2024, 7% in 2025, and 8% in 2026, reflecting evidence-based strategies and stakeholder input.
How does Francophone immigration benefit Canada?
Francophone immigrants enhance Canada’s cultural diversity and economic strength in the communities they join.
For more insights, read our immigration guide.
Discover more about recent initiatives and policies by exploring our official resources.
