Canada’s Liberal government is pushing through sweeping new legislation targeting refugees that observers fear will usher in a new era of US-style border policies, fueling xenophobia and the scapegoating of immigrants.
Bill C-12, or Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System and Borders Act, includes many changes around border security along with new ineligibility rules for refugee claimants.
It was fast-tracked and passed through a third reading in the House of Commons on 11 December before members of parliament rose for the holidays. If it receives Senate approval in February, the bill will become law.
