Global Refugee Crisis

Due to the recent conflicts in Syria, and natural disasters in Haiti, among others, we have entered a global refugee crisis. Countries in the global
north have been bombarded by refugees who arrive en masse in seek of asylum from war or natural disaster. Many people in the global north have shown discontent towards these incoming asylum-seekers, fearing that their countries cannot handle this influx, or that these refugees will burden their local economies. In Canada, others call these views xenophobic, and openly welcome refugees (Macdonell), claiming that Canada is “arguably a nation
not just of immigrants, but of refugees” (Kilian). Initially Justin Trudeau’s openness to refugees was widely supported across the country, but as more and more refugees arrive at Canada’s doorstep, more Canadians are concerned with how we will support them. Canadians are in a difficult position—should we allow more refugees despite the burden they will place on our current residents? How will Canadians develop the support system needed to integrate refugees into Canadian society? More broadly, for whom are we responsible? If we do not accept them, are we morally culpable for the consequences they will face in their home countries?

References

Kilian, Crawford. “Refugees: Ready or Not, Here They Come.” The Tyee 23 Feb. 2017. https://thetyee.ca/Opinion/2017/02/23/Refugees-Here-They-Come/ (18 Sept. 2017).

Macdonell, Beth. “Surge of refugee claimants in Manitoba border town prompts temporary shelter.” CTV News: Winnipeg 6 Feb. 2017. http://winnipeg.ctvnews. ca/surge-of-refugee-claimants-in-manitoba-border-town-prompts-temporary- shelter-1.3273216 (18 Sept. 2017).