Canada Enacts New Immigration Law to Tighten Controls
Canada has introduced a major immigration reform bill, Bill C-12, which is now law. The legislation gives the federal government authority to cancel large groups of visas and impose strict time limits on asylum applications. Officials say the move aims to better control immigration levels.
Strong Criticism from Civil Society Groups
However, the law has triggered strong opposition. A coalition of civil society organizations, including Amnesty International Canada, immigration lawyers, and public sector unions, has raised serious concerns. These groups argue that the legislation grants excessive power to the government and threatens the rights of migrants.
Julia Sande, a lawyer at Amnesty International Canada, warned that the bill weakens refugee protections. She stated that the law makes it harder for individuals to receive fair assessments of their asylum claims. As a result, some people could face deportation to countries where they risk persecution or torture.
Legal Experts Warn of Rights Rollback
Meanwhile, Adam Sadinsky, vice-president of the Canadian Association of Refugee Lawyers, described Bill C-12 as the most significant setback for refugee rights in over a decade. He stressed that legal challenges are likely.
According to Sadinsky, many immigration and refugee lawyers across Canada are already reviewing the law. They are advising clients and considering possible court cases to challenge its constitutionality.
Broad Coalition Prepares Legal Response
The opposition coalition includes major organizations such as the Canadian Council for Refugees, the Canadian Muslim Public Affairs Council, and the Canadian Union of Public Employees. Together, they have pledged to contest the law through legal channels.
In a joint statement, the coalition warned that the legislation puts Canada on a “dangerous path.” They argue that it limits access to refugee protection and allows wider sharing of personal data both within Canada and internationally.
Retroactive Measures Raise Alarm
In addition, the law introduces retroactive provisions. It cancels thousands of existing refugee claims and blocks individuals who entered Canada more than a year ago from applying to the Immigration and Refugee Board.
Critics say these measures could significantly impact vulnerable migrants and undermine long-standing refugee protections.
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