The Safe Third Country Agreement and how Canada can be an Ideal example of a safe haven for refugees

For the past two years, the term “illegal immigrants” has been heard quite a lot. Without any delay, you can just imagine people who are having a hard time in their own countries and have to leave home to survive. The reason why we are hearing this term a lot more often is due to the increasing influx of Immigrants and refugees and the tightening border and immigration rules that exist.

One such program which is not only outdated but hindering the progress of Canada is the Safe Third Country Agreement. This agreement has outlived its validity and needs to be abolished. By letting in the refugees and immigrants, Canada will not only survive but thrive.

What is the Safe Third Country Agreement?

STCA stands for Safe Third Country Agreement. This agreement was signed between Canada and the United States of America back in the year 2002. The agreement came into effect at the end of 2004. According to this agreement, immigrants who are seeking a refugee status must apply for that status in the first country they arrive in.

Since the Trump administration has taken charge, their one of the foremost priorities has been Immigration reforms. And in the process of doing so, they have introduced laws and executive orders and regulations that have tightened entry into the country. With the growing unrest and inhumane conditions of the Immigrants and their families, NGOs and activist groups have called upon Canada to suspend the Safe Third Country Agreement.

What if Canada withdraws from the Safe Third Country Agreement?

The Safe Third Country Agreement prohibits refugees from pursuing a refugee status in Canada if they arrived in America first. There are some exceptions to this rule but the stringent checking and processing is still a problem. This complicates things for immigrants and refugees who are feeling trapped in the United States with each passing day. In fear of the Immigration authorities and the law, the immigrants are crossing the border each day over to Canada. The most commonly used path is the Roxham road that is closer to Champlain, New York in the United States.

If Canada withdraws from the Safe Third Country Agreement and suspends the agreement, the refugees that are crossing the border each day will have another safe haven to go to. Canada has always been accepting of those who need help. The Good Samaritan image of the country is because of its tolerant attitude and service to those who need it. The Safe Third Country Agreement negates that in the present world scenario.

The model Country

Due to stricter regulations, there are still deterrents that bar refugees from seeking refugee status in Canada provided that they arrived in the USA first. The situation has become dangerous and life-threatening in many cases. Reports have come forward of people facing amputations due to frostbite in colder areas. Limiting the number of refugees doesn’t make sense as the country needs more people. Canada can be an inspiration to other countries in the world. By abolishing the agreement, Canada has a chance to progress with refugees and their progress in the country.

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Raima Sen

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