30 October 2023-Ottawa – The Government of Canada has a long and proud tradition of welcoming the world’s most vulnerable people.
In August 2021, when the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan, creating a political, economic and humanitarian crisis that affected and continues to affect millions of people, Canada took action. In the two years since, Canada has provided critical support to the Afghan people. This continued support is driven by our deep connection to Afghanistan, including those who served alongside us for over two decades, our desire to serve the Afghan people, and their growing diaspora that has helped strengthen Canada.
Today, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced that Canada has fulfilled its commitment to welcome at least 40,000 vulnerable Afghans beginning in August 2021. Ours is one of the largest Afghan resettlement programmes in the world, and our work continues.
The Government of Canada remains committed to helping vulnerable Afghans. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will show flexibility and continue to prioritize eligible applications submitted under the Afghan Special Measures.
This important milestone has been made possible through the tireless efforts of many partners in Canada and abroad, including countries in the region, the United Nations Refugee Agency, the International Organisation for Migration and non-governmental organisations.
As Afghan newcomers continue to settle across Canada, we have also seen tremendous support from provincial, territorial and municipal governments and civil society. This includes Canadians who have stepped forward to sponsor Afghan refugees, as well as resettlement service providers who have provided temporary housing, coordinated access to critical health care, education, language and skills training, and social services. Successful resettlement requires the efforts of society as a whole, and the many partners in more than 180 communities across Canada have helped Afghans not only start their lives in Canada, but also contribute to and thrive in their communities.
