Canada and African Refugees: It Is Complicated, but Opportunities Exist for a Partnership

Abstract

Canada is a global leader in addressing refugee issues, particularly in the area of resettlement, but has a complicated relationship with African refugees. The complication is most profound in the case of those living in refugee camps in Africa. In addition, Canada's commitment toward peacekeeping—which it deems a solution for conflicts that are the leading cause of population displacement in the context of Africa—is fraught with complexities. This article reviews the complications underlying Ottawa's response to refugee issues from Africa, arguing that in the next 25 years, Ottawa can change its complicated relationship with Africa into a partnership aimed at providing a solution to the myriad refugee crises. Such a partnership will necessarily include contributing financial and technical support to refugee-hosting countries in Africa and returning to active participation in peacekeeping in Africa.