In time for World Refugee Day on June 20, we, Canada’s longest-serving housing and support provider for refugee claimants, have launched Refugeesclaims.com—the first national, multilingual resource hub for refugee claimants.
Developed by frontline workers, legal experts, and refugee claimants, this platform aims to simplify access to Canada’s refugee protection system through comprehensive public legal education. Refugeesclaims.com addresses critical information, connection, and orientation needs with continuously updated resources, including:
- A step-by-step website guide explaining the refugee claim process from start to finish.
- An Orientation Booklet with detailed checklists for claimants.
- Ready Tours, free virtual workshops that help refugee claimants prepare for hearings and learn about the appeals process.
According to UNHCR, over 117 million people worldwide were forcibly displaced in 2023 due to persecution, conflict, and human rights violations. Although Canada welcomes a small fraction of this global population, the country has seen a record number of asylum seekers seeking refuge and protection.
While Canada provides refugee protection, it offers limited information for claimants. Refugee claimants often arrive alone, struggling to secure housing and navigate a complex legal process to seek protection and eventually apply for permanent residency. They face urgent challenges, including access to basic necessities like housing, food, and clothing, as well as long-term psychological and health-related concerns.
One claimant reflected: “I wish Refugeesclaims.com had existed when I sought refuge. It would have helped me navigate Canada’s legal system leading up to my decision.” Each refugee’s journey is unique, and Refugeesclaims.com is a vital resource to provide immediate support, connections, and guidance to help claimants from the moment they arrive in Canada.
