Bill C-2 and the Future of Refugee Policy: Aligning Enforcement, Resettlement, and Economic Integration

The Canadian government recently introduced new measures to its refugee policy through the Bill C-2 in early 2024 – legislation with significant implications for Hong Kong residents in Canada who are ineligible for existing pathways yet face political risks if required to return. By expanding enforcement authority over immigration documents, the bill could expose temporary residents to immediate permit cancellation when travelling abroad if deemed contrary to public interest. However, while Bill C-2 serves as a legislative tool to reduce asylum claims, federal budget allocations remain more heavily weighed toward refugee resettlement and economic integration. For current claimants, long-term stability will depend less on enforcement outcomes and more on the government’s ability to deliver sustainable integration supports. This article explores the effectiveness and implications of these policy changes on irregular migration and refugee protection—particularly the balance between economic and humanitarian considerations.

Published by:

Lena Mak (Associate Analyst, Canada)