Arhum Palwalla

Nalini Graham
HSB4U1
2023-01-29 Palwalla 1

The Past 50 Years of Canadian Immigration Trends

Prepared by: Arhum Palwalla

Prepared for: Ms. Graham

Due Date: Feb 1st, 2023

Course Code: HSB4U1

Background Information

In 1978, Canada passed a new immigration law confirming accepting refugees facing

persecution in their home countries (Troper, 2022). The exception for refugees in Canadian

immigration laws would end, and Canadian immigration laws and procedures would govern the

admission of refugees (Government of Canada, 2018). However, managing the admission of

refugees has been a challenging issue (Troper, 2022). During the 1980s, Canada was among the

leading Western nations in accepting refugees from Southeast Asia, particularly from Vietnam,

referred to as "boat people” (Government of Canada, 2018). Some refugees travel to Canada and

request asylum, and those who make it to Canada must prove to Canadian authorities that they

face persecution in their home countries (Government of Canada, 2018). If they are granted

asylum, they can stay in Canada; otherwise, they risk being sent back (Troper, 2022). The

number of asylum seekers increased in the 1980s, and the Canadian assessment process needed

to deal promptly with the high volume of applications (Government of Canada, 2018).

In response to the refugee crisis, Canada started restricting its refugee policies in the late

1980s in response to concerns that the country would be "flooded" with refugees (Government of

Canada, 2018). The system for determining refugee status has been continually streamlined or

made more stringent, and Canadian officials have collaborated closely with other governments

and shipping corporations to prevent potential refugees from entering Canada (Troper, 2022).

Some Canadians are worried that these modifications could prevent legitimate refugees from

receiving the protection they are entitled (Troper, 2022). However, Canada created new doors for

other immigrants with valuable skills or financial capabilities in the late 1980s and early 1990s

(Troper, 2022).

Following the September 11, 2001 attacks and security concerns, Canada tightened its

immigration regulations and adopted the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act in 2002
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(Troper, 2022). The act made it harder for refugees to enter Canada but easier for same-sex or

common-law couples to join (Troper, 2022). Canada's treatment of Tamil asylum seekers in

2009-2010 reflected its stricter attitude toward refugees, with many being arrested despite being

genuine refugees (Troper, 2022). In 2015-2017, Canada resettled 54,000 Syrian refugees, though

its participation was modest compared to other nations like Germany, Lebanon, Turkey, and

Sweden (Troper, 2022).

Canada receives a large number of immigrants each year, with an estimated 249,500

immigrants entering the country annually between 2001 and 2014 (Government of Canada,

2018). The largest groups of recent immigrants to Canada are from China, the Philippines, and

India, making up 18%, 11%, and 8.9% of recent immigrants, respectively (Troper, 2022). Other

countries that have contributed to the immigrant population in Canada include the United States,

Pakistan, France, Iran, Syria, Nigeria, the United Kingdom, and the United States (Government

of Canada, 2018).

In conclusion, Canada has had a long and dynamic history of immigration and refugee

resettlement, with policies and attitudes shifting over time. Starting from the 1980s, Canada led

the western world in welcoming refugees from Southeast Asia but has since become stricter due

to security concerns, terrorist threats, and rising numbers of asylum applicants. Despite this,

Canada continues to welcome many immigrants annually, with the largest groups coming from

China, the Philippines, and India. However, the country's immigration system has been criticized

for being overly complex and challenging for refugees to navigate. Nevertheless, Canada has

demonstrated a willingness to help those in need, as evidenced by its quick resettlement of

Syrian refugees during the 2015-2017 refugee crisis.

Graph

NOTE: THIS GRAPH ORIGINALLY SPANNED OVER THE PAST 150 YEARS, IN

ORDER TO FOCUS ONLY ON THE PAST 50 YEARS I HAVE EDITED THE GRAPH

TO ONLY SHOWCASE THE DATA FROM THIS TIMEFRAME. ADDITIONALLY

THIS GRAPH HAS BEEN PUT ON A SEPERATE PAGE AS IT TOOK UP TOO MUCH

SPACE FOR THE WRITE UP.

Graph Analysis

A few observations I made about this graph are that the number of immigrants to Canada

has consistently increased from 1970 to 2018, except for a few fluctuations in some years. The

number of immigrants rose from 147,713 in 1970 to 321,065 in 2018, with a relative increase of

117%. The immigration rate to Canada also showed a general upward trend from 1970 to 2018.

The immigration rate increased from a low of 3.5 in 1983 to a high of 8.7 in 2018. The

immigration rate was relatively stable from 1983 to 1999, with a range of 3.5 to 6.2, but saw a

significant increase from 1999 to 2018, with a range of 6.2 to 8.7. The immigration rate

increased by 148% from 1983 to 2018.

The fluctuation of the number of immigrants and immigration rate in Canada from 1970

to 2018 is a complex and multi-faceted phenomenon. Several factors contribute to this trend,

including generational differences, economic forces, and government policies. One of the most

significant contributing factors is the demographic composition of the Canadian population,

particularly the baby boomer generation (born 1946-1964) (Foot & Cooper, 2019). This

generation had a lower immigration rate than previous and subsequent generations, possibly due

to their focus on stability and security and lower willingness to move (Foot & Cooper, 2019).

Economic conditions play a significant role in determining immigration levels. The

Canadian economy experienced a recession in the 1970s, which resulted in a decrease in

immigration (Hou & Picot, 2022). However, as the economy improved in the 1980s and 1990s,

immigration rates increased (Hou & Picot, 2022). Government policies also have a significant

impact on immigration trends. Changes in immigration policies can create a favorable or

unfavorable environment for immigration, which can, in turn, impact the overall number of

immigrants and immigration rate.

Another essential factor contributing to the fluctuation of immigration trends is social

science theories, such as the Conflict Theory and the Challenge & Response Theory of Change.

The Conflict Theory states that social change results from competition for power and economic

resources between different groups in society (Graham, 2022). In the context of organizational

change, this can lead to conflict between various departments, employees, or even management,

resulting in changes in policies, structures, and practices. On the other hand, the Challenge &

Response Theory of Change posits that change occurs due to challenges or disruptions to the

status quo and that individuals and organizations must respond in new ways to adapt to these

changes (Graham, 2022). This theory asserts that change is a natural and ongoing process and

can result in positive outcomes if individuals and organizations respond effectively to challenges

(Graham 2022).

In addition to these internal factors, global events such as wars, political upheavals, and

natural disasters can also impact immigration trends. For example, the 9/11 attacks in 2001 led to

a decrease in immigration as the world became less stable and less welcoming to immigrants

(Government of Canada, 2021).

In conclusion, the trends observed in Canada's immigration data explain a complex

interplay of internal and external factors, including government policies, economic conditions,

global events, and demographic shifts. Understanding these factors is crucial in predicting future

immigration trends and developing effective immigration policies. The Canadian government

and policymakers must consider these various factors to create a comprehensive and effective

immigration policy that meets the changing needs and demands of Canadian society. The
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government must also be proactive in addressing potential challenges and disruptions to the

status quo to ensure that immigration remains a positive and dynamic force in Canadian society.

Social Science Analysis

A psychologist would view the trends of immigration to Canada from a psychological

perspective by exploring the underlying motivations, attitudes, and beliefs of those who

immigrate to Canada. For example, psychologists would examine why people choose to leave

their home countries and move to Canada, such as seeking better economic opportunities,

escaping political or social instability, or reuniting with family members. They would also

consider the impact of these migrations on immigrants' psychological well-being, including the

stress and challenges they may face in adjusting to a new culture and environment.

Furthermore, psychologists would explore the impact of government policies on

immigration patterns. For example, changes in immigration policies can create a favorable or

unfavorable environment for immigration, which can impact the overall number of immigrants

and the immigration rate. It can also affect the psychological well-being of potential immigrants,

as they may experience uncertainty or fear due to policy changes.

Additionally, psychologists would consider the impact of global events, such as wars or

natural disasters, on immigration patterns. These events can create a less stable and less

welcoming environment for immigrants, impacting their psychological well-being and the

likelihood of migration.

In conclusion, the immigration trends in Canada are a complex interplay of various

psychological factors, including motivations, attitudes, beliefs, government policies, and global

events. Psychologists would approach this topic by exploring these factors to better understand
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the reasons and experiences of those who migrate to Canada and the impact of these migrations

on their psychological well-being.

Generational Analysis

Generational perspectives on immigration trends in Canada from 1970 to 2018 can vary

greatly, with different values and beliefs shaping the views of different generations. One key

factor influencing a generation's perspective on immigration is their experiences with societal

change and cultural diversity.

The baby boomer generation, born between 1946 and 1964, is generally characterized as

valuing stability, security, and conformity. This generation may view immigration as a threat to

the peace and security of their communities, particularly if it leads to significant cultural change.

They may also be more resistant to immigration if they believe it puts a strain on public

resources and services, such as healthcare and social security.

On the other hand, younger generations, such as Generation X (born 1965-1980) and

Millennials (born 1981-1996), are often seen as more open-minded and accepting of cultural

diversity. These generations may view immigration as an opportunity to broaden their cultural

horizons and expand their social networks. They also believe that immigration can help bring

new skills and perspectives to the Canadian economy and society, contributing to economic

growth and cultural richness.

Another factor that shapes a generation's perspective on immigration is their values and

beliefs about the role of government and individual responsibility. Baby boomers may view

immigration as a government issue and strongly believe in the role of government in regulating

and controlling immigration levels. They may also be more likely to view immigration as an
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individual responsibility to integrate into Canadian society and adopt Canadian values and

beliefs.

Younger generations, on the other hand, may view immigration as a collective

responsibility, emphasizing the role of government and society in providing support and

resources to help immigrants integrate and succeed in Canadian society. They may also be more

supportive of immigration policies that promote diversity, equality, and social justice and aim to

help immigrants overcome the challenges and barriers they face.

In conclusion, the values and beliefs of different generations shape their perspectives on

immigration trends and policies in Canada. Understanding these generational differences can

help policymakers and government officials to develop more effective and inclusive immigration

policies that take into account the changing needs and perspectives of Canadian society. It is

essential to find a balance between stability, security, and diversity and to ensure that

immigration remains a positive and dynamic force in Canadian society.

Overall, these generational differences in values and beliefs about immigration can

inform how policies are developed and implemented in Canada. By considering the diverse

perspectives of different generations, Canada can create immigration policies that promote

diversity, equality, and social justice while also ensuring stability, security, and economic

growth.
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Conclusion

In conclusion, my analysis has provided a comprehensive overview of the topic. It has

covered various aspects, including relevant background information, important considerations,

and an in-depth examination of the key points. The information and insights presented have

highlighted the significance of the topic and have offered valuable insights into the various

aspects and considerations. The key takeaways from the analysis are that the topic is complex

and multifaceted, and it requires careful consideration and analysis in order to make informed

decisions. Additionally, the analysis has demonstrated that there are various challenges and

opportunities that need to be taken into account, and that there are different perspectives and

opinions that need to be considered. Overall, the conclusion of my analysis reinforces the

importance of considering the topic in depth and taking a well-rounded approach in order to

arrive at informed and meaningful conclusions.

References

Foot, R., & Cooper, C. (2019, August 1). Baby Boomers in Canada. The Canadian

Encyclopedia. Retrieved January 30, 2023, from

https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/baby-boom

Government of Canada, D. of J. (2021, July 7). About the anti-terrorism act. Government of

Canada, Department of Justice, Electronic Communications. Retrieved January 30, 2023,

from https://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/cj-jp/ns-sn/act-loi.html#:~:text=Adopted%20by

%20Parliament%20following%20the,Registration%20(Security%20Information)

%20Act.

Government of Canada, S. C. (2018, May 17). 150 years of immigration in Canada. Government

of Canada, Statistics Canada. Retrieved January 29, 2023, from

https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/11-630-x/11-630-x2016006-eng.htm

Hou, F., & Picot, G. (2022, February 23). Immigrant labour market outcomes during recessions:

Comparing the early 1990s, late 2000s and COVID-19 recessions. Retrieved January 30,

2023, from https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/36-28-0001/2022002/article/00003-

eng.htm

Immigration Watch Canada. (n.d.). Retrieved January 30, 2023, from

https://immigrationwatchcanada.org/
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Troper, H. (2022, October 26). Immigration to Canada. The Canadian Encyclopedia. Retrieved

January 29, 2023, from https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/immigration