Event notes below

Event Host/Institute: LERRN: The Local Engagement Refugee Research Network
Event date: May 20th, 2026
Event type: Webinar
Link : https://carleton.ca/lerrn/event/canada-in-the-global-refugee-regime/

Description:

The virtual launch of Canada in the Global Refugee Regime examined Canada’s evolving role within international refugee protection systems, highlighting both its historical leadership and the growing contradictions between its global humanitarian reputation and increasingly restrictive domestic immigration policies. Speakers emphasized that while Canada has played an influential role in advancing refugee protection through diplomacy, multilateral engagement, and initiatives such as the Global Refugee Sponsorship Initiative, meaningful protection ultimately depends on sustained political will, strong government leadership, and flexible, community-driven approaches. Discussions also underscored the critical role of civil society, diaspora communities, and local actors in shaping refugee protection outcomes, while stressing that in a period of declining global humanitarian commitments, Canada has both the responsibility and diplomatic capacity to strengthen refugee resettlement, community sponsorship, and international protection norms.