Story perspectives

Canada's Bill C-12 Restricts Asylum Rights, Sparks Outcry

3/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

Canada passed Bill C-12, a law that restricts asylum rights.
The law limits access to the Immigration and Refugee Board for applicants who entered Canada more than a year before applying.
Human rights groups condemn the law as endangering thousands of refugees and mirroring U.S. anti-migrant policies.
The United Nations expressed concern that refugee protections may be weakened, while advocates continue to rally.

History

Historical Context

The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson, abolished national origin quotas, allowing approximately 350,000 immigrants annually and prioritizing family reunification. This landmark legislation significantly altered U.S. demographics, increasing immigration from Asia and Africa. Canada's recent Bill C-12, which mirrors restrictive U.S. policies, raises concerns about potential setbacks in refugee protections established over decades.

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Story summary

Canada passed Bill C-12, a law that restricts asylum rights.
The law limits access to the Immigration and Refugee Board for applicants who entered Canada more than a year before applying.
Human rights groups condemn the law as endangering thousands of refugees and mirroring U.S. anti-migrant policies.
The United Nations expressed concern that refugee protections may be weakened, while advocates continue to rally.

1 / 2