New survey finds Canadians are feeling anxious about immigration

Canadians Expressing Concerns Over Immigration, Economic Strain: Survey

A recent survey conducted by the Canadian Museum for Human Rights has revealed that Canadians are becoming increasingly uneasy about immigration and its impact on the country’s economy. The survey, which heard from 2,500 Canadians in both 2023 and 2024, highlighted various concerns regarding newcomers, refugees, and asylum seekers.

One of the key findings of the survey was that 56% of respondents believed that refugees and asylum seekers receive “too many benefits,” marking a significant increase from the previous year. Additionally, there was a notable decrease in the number of Canadians who believed that immigration contributes to making the country better, dropping from 52% in 2023 to 44% in 2024.

Furthermore, the survey found that 41% of Canadians felt that there was “too much attention focused on the rights of newcomers.” This shift in perception has raised concerns among experts, including Isha Khan, the CEO of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, who emphasized the need for further study into the changing attitudes towards immigration.

The survey, titled 2024 Foresights for Human Rights, also touched on other human rights issues, with respondents expressing concerns about access to affordable housing and the weakening of housing rights over the past decade. Despite these challenges, the majority of respondents remained optimistic about protecting human rights in Canada, particularly in areas such as Indigenous rights and gender equity.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s recent acknowledgment of the need for changes to the immigration system came in response to the survey findings and public concerns. In an online video, Trudeau admitted that the government could have acted more swiftly to address issues within the immigration programs and announced reductions in the number of permanent residents being admitted to Canada.

While Trudeau’s video was intended to clarify the government’s stance on immigration, it was met with criticism from groups like the Migrant Rights Network, who accused the prime minister of perpetuating harmful myths about migrants. The network emphasized the important role migrants play in Canada’s economy and communities and called for better protections for their rights.

As debates around immigration and economic strain continue to evolve, it is essential to address the underlying issues that contribute to public perceptions and ensure that policies prioritize the well-being of both newcomers and Canadian citizens.