On July 25, 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced expanding the global human rights defenders stream, increasing the number of resettlement spaces for human rights defenders and their families from 250 to 500. This initiative reflects Canada’s dedication to providing a safe haven for those who risk their lives for fundamental freedoms and its proud tradition of responding to the needs of vulnerable people. Canada clearly states its commitment to supporting and protecting human rights defenders facing persecution by expanding the global refugee stream. As part of this commitment, Canadian civil society organizations will work together in the coming months to develop a temporary protection pathway for human rights defenders in need.
