Canadian Refugee Sponsorship Programs: Experience of Syrian Refugees in Alberta, Canada
Abstract
The article documents the settlement experiences of Syrian refugees in a major city in Alberta, Canada, in the first year of their resettlement. It then compares them across the three government and private sponsorship programs to understand which program is most effective in helping refugees settle and integrate in Canada. The findings suggest that all three programs were largely successful in bringing in Syrian refugees, from various asylum countries in the Middle East to safe places in Canada. However, the settlement experience of refugees varied after they arrived in Canada. Challenges in learning English and finding employment were paramount among all three refugee streams. Contrary to some academic literature, privately sponsored refugees faced resettlement challenges similar to their counterparts in the two other sponsorship streams.
Notes
Integration timeline
At what point during the integration process the study was conducted?
NA
Key findings
Private spronsorship effective for bringing refugees to Canada; All refugees, including PSRs face settlement challenges especially around employment and language learning; PSRs face similar challenges to GARs and BVORs
Key recommendations
Enhance quality of LINC to make more appropriate for diversity of learners; Consider skills-training models in use elsewhere (Germany) to craft a country-wide apprenticeship/bridge program to employment; Acknowledge PSRs need settlement services; Engage religious organizations in providing culturally/religiously appropriate services; Consider BVOR program as a possible better option (than PSR program) with both government and sponsors invovled.
Community organizations
Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers; Islamic Familyand Social Service Association; Action for Healthy Communities; Catholic Social Service
Key populations
Syrian refugees
Gaps identified
LINC programs could be improved to better meet the needs of various refugee learners; Bridge to employment in a barrier for refugees; PSRs need more settlement supports than they currently receive
Open-access – No
Location