Canada Sees Surge in Deportations Amid Immigration Policy Shift

Canada reported a significant increase in deportations in 2024, reaching its highest annual level of removals in nearly a decade. Data obtained by Reuters revealed that by late November 2024, Canada had deported 7,300 people, marking an 8.4% rise compared to the entire year of 2023 and a staggering 95% increase from 2022. The majority of these deportations—approximately 79%—involved individuals whose refugee claims were rejected, up from 75% in 2023 and 66% in 2022. This surge in removals reflects a tougher stance on immigration by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government, which is nearing the end of its term in office.

A Shift in Immigration Policy and Public Perception

The uptick in deportations aligns with the Trudeau government’s efforts to demonstrate stricter enforcement of immigration policies. This shift comes amid growing public concerns over a backlog of refugee claims and rising tensions about immigration’s impact on housing shortages. The Canadian border agency attributed the increase in removals to a “significant increase” in asylum applications since 2020, prompting more efficient enforcement of deportation orders. The agency emphasized that maintaining the integrity of Canada’s asylum system is essential.

However, critics argue that deporting individuals, particularly failed refugee claimants, raises ethical concerns. Many of those deported may still be appealing their cases, and some could face persecution or danger upon return to their home countries. Aisling Bondy, president of the Canadian Association of Refugee Lawyers, warned that individuals might be deported even when there are significant errors in risk assessments related to their safety.

Budget and Enforcement: A Commitment to Deportations

The Canadian government has not only increased the number of deportations but has also allocated more resources to this effort. In 2023-24, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) spent $65.8 million on removals, up from $56 million the previous year. Additionally, the government pledged $30.5 million over three years to enhance deportation efforts. This financial commitment underscores the government’s prioritization of enforcement, signaling that deportations will likely continue to rise in the coming years.

The CBSA also noted that removal numbers fluctuate, but the trend since the pandemic has been clear: deportations of individuals with rejected asylum claims have increased annually. Spokesperson Luke Reimer stated that the agency only acts on removal orders after all legal avenues have been exhausted, ensuring due process. However, opponents argue that the focus on deporting failed refugee claimants is a politically motivated move to demonstrate strict border control.

Concerns Over Deportation Practices and Human Rights

The spike in deportations has sparked concerns among human rights advocates and legal experts. University of Toronto law professor Audrey Macklin pointed out that targeting failed refugee claimants for deportation is often the easiest way to demonstrate enforcement effectiveness. She warned that this approach could deter legitimate asylum seekers and undermine the fairness of Canada’s immigration system.

Moreover, the growing backlog of refugee claims—278,457 pending cases as of late 2024—highlights the systemic challenges Canada faces in managing asylum applications. While monthly refugee claims have decreased from 19,821 in July 2024 to 11,838 in January 2025, the pending cases remain the highest in decades. This backlog raises questions about the efficiency and fairness of the asylum process, particularly for those awaiting decisions on their claims.

Future Trends and Implications

Looking ahead, Canada’s deportation numbers are expected to climb further. The government has outlined plans to reduce the number of temporary and permanent residents, with over 1.2 million temporary residents, including workers and students, expected to leave the country in 2025. Immigration Minister Marc Miller has made it clear that those who do not leave voluntarily will face deportation after due process.

This hardline approach reflects a broader shift in immigration policy, driven by political and public pressure. While the government frames deportations as a necessary measure to maintain the integrity of the asylum system, critics fear that the focus on enforcement may come at the cost of human rights and fairness. As Canada continues to grapple with the complexities of immigration, the balance between border security and humanitarian concerns remains a contentious issue.

In conclusion, Canada’s recent surge in deportations highlights the government’s tougher stance on immigration amid growing public and political pressures. While the focus on enforcement may address some concerns about border control, it also raises important questions about the treatment of vulnerable individuals and the integrity of the asylum system. As the country’s immigration policies evolve, the impact on those seeking safety and the broader implications for Canadian society will remain a critical area of debate.