Maple News reports that Concordia University in Montreal has launched the Institute for Research on Migration and Society (IRMS), a new academic hub dedicated to studying immigration and improving outcomes for newcomers across Canada.
The institute aims to produce rigorous, evidence-based research on migration patterns, integration challenges, and policy impacts. By doing so, it seeks to inform decision-makers, bridge linguistic and political divides, and foster a better understanding of immigrant experiences.
Officially launched with a team of ten core faculty members and led by Director Mireille Paquet, IRMS is positioned to become a national leader in bilingual migration research. Its unique capacity to operate in both French and English sets it apart, particularly in Quebec, where much of the immigration discourse typically occurs in French.
The IRMS also aspires to address complex issues such as the secondary migration of newcomers leaving Quebec for other provinces, while promoting dialogue between provincial bodies and the federal government. This multi-level approach could help shape more cohesive policies fostering long-term immigrant retention and social cohesion.
Since its inception, IRMS has already partnered with both academic institutions and government groups on collaborative projects. One such initiative is “Migrant Integration in the Mid-21st Century: Bridging Divides,” where IRMS contributes to the stream focused on citizenship and participation. The project examines how digital tools and inclusive policies can support more socially sustainable immigration systems.
Another ongoing collaboration involves RQ3I (Réseau de recherche sur l’immigration, l’intégration et les relations interculturelles au Québec), a Quebec-based network researching integration and intercultural relations. Through such partnerships, the institute is helping shape forward-thinking strategies rooted in data and community engagement.
According to Maple News, the IRMS marks a pivotal step in reimagining how Canada studies and supports immigration. As migration becomes increasingly central to Canada’s demographic and economic landscape, the institute’s work will be vital in crafting informed, inclusive, and progressive policies for the years to come.