Settlement agencies across Canada have united to aid Ukrainian arrivals under a federal emergency program. Since April 2022, 41,000 individuals have been approved under this initiative, arriving at Toronto, Edmonton, and Vancouver international airports. This program aims to assist Ukrainians fleeing conflict and seeking resettlement in Canada.
Sean Fraser, Canada’s immigration minister, highlighted the temporary nature of many arrivals, emphasizing access to essential services such as language training, childcare, and employment support. Most Ukrainians initially arrived in Warsaw or Berlin, potentially settling in Western Canada due to existing community ties.
Chris Friesen of the Canadian Immigrant Settlement Sector Alliance underlined the unique challenges faced by Ukrainians arriving under emergency travel measures. These individuals require a blend of temporary visitor support and refugee-like services, including immediate access to income support and healthcare.
Transitioning from urgent arrival measures to sustainable settlement poses logistical complexities. Unlike traditional refugee resettlement plans, the emergency nature of this initiative lacked predefined targets or timelines for arrival and settlement, making it a historic humanitarian effort in Canada.
British Columbia, alongside organizations like the United Way, has launched initiatives to support Ukrainian refugees. These efforts include a dedicated 24-hour hotline, educational support from kindergarten to Grade 12, reduced tuition fees for post-secondary education, and mental health services.
The federal government has committed to providing immediate support for new arrivals, including six weeks of income support and two weeks of accommodation for those in need. In contrast, challenges persist for Afghan refugees attempting to reach Canada due to bureaucratic hurdles and geopolitical complexities.
Canada’s commitment to resettling displaced populations reflects its humanitarian values. While supporting Ukrainians remains a priority under emergency measures, ongoing efforts to assist Afghan refugees highlight broader challenges in international resettlement policies. By uniting governmental resources and community support, Canada aims to fulfill its moral obligations while navigating complex global realities.
Source: CBC NEWS, April 2022
