Every year, violence, conflict and poverty force millions to leave their homes in search of refuge. While Canada prides itself on welcoming refugees, we are often far less welcoming than we want to believe. Recent federal initiatives threaten the basic human rights of refugee claimants, and everywhere refugees and migrants continue to face suspicion and discrimination.

We believe that Canadians are called to welcome those who seek refuge in this country. The Bible calls us to “welcome the stranger”, and Canada has signed many international agreements which uphold this vision.

KAIROS’ refugee and migrants program educates for change, and advocates nationally and globally for adherence to these international covenants. Be sure to see our separate page on migrants' rights.

Education for Change

To counter the many myths and stereotypes about refugees and migrants, we offer resources, media advocacy, and workshops. Check out our resources in these pages, and contact the refugee and migrants program coordinator for up to date information.

National Advocacy

• Mobilizing awareness and resistance around the federal government’s decision to indefinitely delay the appeal process in Canada’s refugee determination system.
• Opposing the government’s so-called “Safe Third Country” agreement with the United States.
• Monitoring implementation of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).
• Monitoring and advocating on specific issues like family reunification,  detention of refugee claimants, and efforts to link refugee claimants to security concerns.

International Advocacy
We advocate for the rights of refugees and migrants at international gatherings. For example, KAIROS:

• Develops common advocacy strategies with partners in the Global Ecumenical Network on Uprooted People on issues such as detention.
• Monitors the work of the Executive Committee of the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (EXCOM).