- Thousands of international students in Canada are protesting.
- Why? They’re worried that they might have to leave the country soon.
- Here is what’s going on.
The larger context: Canada’s strained resources
Canada has long been a popular destination for international students, particularly from India, due to its relatively straightforward pathway to permanent residency.
However, the influx of students has placed significant pressure on the country’s housing, healthcare, and other services.
As Canadians began to protest the strain on these resources, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government responded with a crackdown.
Here’s what’s going on:
Why are international students protesting in Canada?
Imagine you’re a student who moved to Canada to study and work.
You worked hard and now, when it’s time to start your career, you hear that the Canadian government might not let you stay!
That’s what’s happening to over 70,000 students who could be sent home when their work permits expire this year.
Thousands of international students in Canada are protesting because they might have to leave the country soon.
What did the Canadian government decide?
The Canadian government, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, decided to allow fewer temporary foreign workers to stay in the country. This means:
- Less work for international students after they finish school.
- New rules say students can only work 24 hours a week off-campus.
- The government wants to reduce the number of new students coming to Canada by 35% starting this September.
Students set up camps and rally
In some places like Prince Edward Island, students have even set up tents outside government buildings!
They’ve been protesting overnight for over three months.
Students in other places like Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia are also protesting.
Why are students upset?
Students and their supporters are saying, “Hey, it’s not our fault there are problems with jobs and housing here! We just want to work, live, and contribute to Canada.”
They feel the new rules are unfair and make it harder for them to stay and find good jobs.
What do they want?
The students are asking the government to:
- Let them work more hours.
- Make it easier for them to become permanent residents so they don’t have to leave after their studies.
Big changes in Canada’s immigration rules
Canada’s new rules are not just about students. The government also decided that:
- Companies can only hire 10% of their workforce as temporary foreign workers, down from 20%.
- If an area has a high unemployment rate, companies can’t hire any temporary foreign workers there.
- Temporary jobs in low-wage positions will now last only one year, not two.
What does this mean for Canada?
The government thinks these changes will help more Canadians find jobs. However, students and workers from other countries are worried it might be harder for them to stay and work there.
That’s why students are out there with their signs and chants, hoping the government will hear them and change the rules!