Maple News reports that immigration remains a key issue in the 2021 Canadian federal election, with all major political parties voicing support for newcomers. Amid ongoing global crises, including the humanitarian emergency in Afghanistan, Canada is positioning itself as a nation committed to welcoming vulnerable populations. The governing Liberal Party has pledged to resettle 20,000 Afghan refugees, a promise that has not drawn opposition from other major political parties.
Public sentiment in Canada continues to strongly favor immigration. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic and despite economic uncertainty, the Liberal government increased immigration targets to over 400,000 annually for the next three years. This move reflects the country’s long-standing view that immigration is essential not just to economic recovery but also to Canada’s future growth.
Nonetheless, key challenges persist in the immigration system. Processing backlogs, outdated technology infrastructure, and a lack of clear direction on programs like the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) remain unresolved. These issues have become focal points in campaign platforms across party lines.
Liberal leader Justin Trudeau, whose party is center-left on the political spectrum, has not yet fully released its 2021 immigration platform. However, incremental platform statements suggest the party remains committed to high immigration levels, resettlement efforts, and systemic modernization. Trudeau is also pledging to improve housing affordability—an issue that strongly affects immigrants and first-time homebuyers.
Additionally, the Liberal government is already taking steps to modernize immigration. Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino recently emphasized digital transformation, with some Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) moving from paper-based to online application processing as of earlier this year.
In contrast to immigration debates in many other countries, Canadian discourse focuses less on whether immigrants should be welcomed and more on how to deliver a smoother, more efficient process. This consensus reflects a broader political culture that views immigration as vital to national identity and prosperity.
As voters head to the polls, party platforms from the Liberals, Conservatives, New Democrats, and Bloc Québécois will continue to shape discussions around immigration priorities, efficiencies, and humanitarian commitments.
Maple News will continue to provide in-depth coverage on how each party proposes to improve and reform Canada’s immigration system.