As global refugee crisis worsens, UNHCR report says Canada received 146,800 new claims in 2023 ! Other than inside Canada claims, crisis in the world currently in the middle east also contributes large number of asylum claimants from Lebanon, Syria and Yemen in 2024.

pite its geographic isolation from the rest of the world save for the United States, Canada was the fifth largest recipient country of asylum seekers last year. 

According to the latest global trends report released Thursday by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (also known as the United Nations Refugee Agency), Canada received 146,800 new claims in 2023, up from 94,000 the year before. Only four countries were ahead: the U.S. (1.2 million), Germany (329,100), Egypt (183,100) and Spain (163,200).

It was the first time Canada made it into the top five in at least six years. It was ranked ninth in 2022 and was not even among the top 10 during the pandemic in 2020 and 2021, when the country’s border was generally closed to foreign nationals.

The Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada’s latest statistics show that 46,693 claims were already made between January and March in 2024. At that pace, it could reach a new high around 186,000 by the end of this year.

Following a ban last year preventing irregular migrants from seeking asylum through the U.S. land border, the Canadian government in February slapped visa requirements on Mexican travellers , who accounted for the largest number of claims in the country.

But it appears Canada can’t stay immune from the global refugee crisis, which saw the number of forcibly displaced people surging to 117.3 million in 2023 from 108.4 million in 2022. As of May, the UN agency said the number has already risen to 120 million, which is the size of the population of Japan.

The growing displacement — the 12th consecutive annual increase — can be attributed to new conflicts and wars popping up around the world as well as a failure to resolve long-standing crises, said the agency.

“Behind these stark and rising numbers lie countless human tragedies,” said  Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, in a statement.

“It is high time for warring parties to respect the basic laws of war and international law. The fact is that without better co-operation and concerted efforts to address conflict, human rights violations and the climate crisis, displacement figures will keep rising, bringing fresh misery and costly humanitarian responses.”

The agency said the ongoing conflict in Sudan alone has seen 10.8 million people being uprooted. Vicious fighting in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Myanmar forced millions of others to flee their homes for safety.

In the Gaza Strip, up to 1.7 million people or 75 per cent of the population had been displaced by the end of last year, while Syria remains the world’s largest displacement crisis, with 13.8 million of the population displaced in and outside of their country.

The vast majority of refugees are hosted in countries near their own, with 75 per cent staying in low- and middle-income countries that together produce less than 20 per cent of the world’s income.

The report does offer a glimmer of hope at what could be accomplished through international collaboration to address the global crisis. 

Worldwide, more than five million internally displaced people and one million refugees managed to return home in 2023, with 154,300 being resettled for a new life in other countries.

Canada alone opened the door to almost a third or nearly 51,100 of those refugees, including 16,600 from Afghanistan, 9,200 from Eritrea, 8,400 from Syria and 4,300 from Somalia.

The Process and Eligibility:

Canada has a well-established system for individuals seeking refuge from persecution, conflict, or violence in their home countries. The refugee claim process in Canada is designed to offer protection to those who face serious risks if they return to their homeland. This system, rooted in both humanitarian values and international obligations, reflects Canada's commitment to upholding human rights and providing a safe haven for those in need. However, the process is complex, and it poses unique challenges for both claimants and the Canadian government.

Understanding the Refugee Claim Process

A refugee claim inside Canada can be initiated in two main ways: at the port of entry (airport, seaport, or land border) or from within the country. Here's an outline of the process:

1. Filing the Claim:
2. Eligibility Assessment:
3. Hearing and Decision:
4. Appeals and Judicial Review:

Opportunities and Benefits of the Refugee System

Despite the challenges, Canada's refugee claim process offers several important benefits:

1. Protection for Vulnerable Populations:
2. Diversity and Economic Contribution:
3. Humanitarian Leadership:

To claim refugee protection in Canada, you must follow a specific process, whether you're already in the country or seeking entry at a port of entry (airport, seaport, or land border).

Here are the steps:

1. Determine Eligibility

You can apply for refugee protection if you fear persecution in your home country due to:

• Race
• Religion
• Political opinion
• Nationality
• Being a member of a particular social group (such as LGBTQ+, gender, etc.)

You are not eligible to make a refugee claim if:

• You’ve already been granted refugee protection in another country.
• You arrived via the U.S. and are subject to the Canada-U.S. Safe Third Country Agreement (exceptions may apply).
• You’ve been convicted of serious crimes.

Refugee Application in Canada from Countries like Lebanon and Syria

Applying for refugee status in Canada from Lebanon is a complex and highly sensitive process. This guide aims to provide an in-depth overview of the steps involved in seeking refuge in Canada from Lebanon. Please note that this guide serves as an informational resource and should not be considered legal advice. For personalized and up-to-date information, it is crucial to consult with legal experts and Canadian immigration authorities.

Introduction of Refugee Application in Canada from Lebanon and warzone countries :

Lebanon, a country in the Middle East, has faced numerous challenges, including political instability, economic crisis, and a history of conflict. As a result, many individuals from Lebanon seek refuge in countries like Canada to escape these difficult circumstances. If you are one of these individuals, it's important to understand the steps involved in applying for refugee status in Canada.

Eligibility for Refugee Status & Refugee Application in Canada from Lebanon

To apply for refugee status in Canada from Lebanon, you must meet the criteria set by Canadian immigration laws and international agreements. The primary requirements include:

1. Ground of Persecution: You should have evidence of persecution of your person
2. No Other Solution: You should not have any other options for protection in your home country or a third country.
3. Not Inadmissible: You must not be considered inadmissible to Canada due to criminal activity, security concerns, or health issues.

Preparing Your Refugee Application outside Canada from Lebanon

1. Get in touch with UNHCR

Before applying to Canada, it is advisable to contact the UNHCR office in Lebanon. They can provide information and guidance on the refugee status determination process and may assist in identifying alternative solutions.

Refugee Claims inside Canada: Process, Refugee Claims inside Canada: 
Process, Challenges, and OpportunitiesChallenges, and Opportunities        

Conclusion

Canada's refugee claim system balances humanitarian values with legal obligations. While it faces pressures from rising numbers of claimants and resource limitations, the process remains a vital lifeline for individuals fleeing persecution. Continued improvements to processing efficiency, support for claimants, and legal reform will be key to ensuring that Canada remains a welcoming and just refuge for those in need.

Seeking refugee status in Canada from Lebanon or any other country where someone is facing serious persecution, is a challenging and complex process. It is important to have a strong case and seek legal guidance to navigate the intricacies of the application. Remember that immigration laws and procedures may change over time, so it is advisable to consult with Canadian immigration authorities or legal experts for the most up-to-date information and guidance.

 In case, if you need legal assistance with Refugee Application inside or outside of Canada from Lebanon or any other countries for professional advise and legal representation, please you may contact us directly.

Mustafa Backer, the Senior Counsel is licensed by CICC (Level 3) Immigration Expert at Sherway Canada Immigration.