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Statement for International Migrants Day 2017
12-26-2017
Ottawa, December 18, 2017 – The Hon. Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship; the Hon. Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs; and the Hon. Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, today issued the following statement:
“The United Nations designated December 18 as International Migrants Day. It is an opportunity to remember the rights, contributions and needs of migrants worldwide.
“Throughout history, migration has been a means for people to overcome adversity and seek a better life for themselves and their families. There are currently more than 244 million international migrants around the world, and one in 10 of them are under the age of 15.
“Canada has a long and proud tradition of immigration, and one in five Canadians is born abroad. Migrants contribute to the identity and long-term prosperity of our country, enhance the cultural richness and diversity of our communities, bring new skills to our labour force, and contribute to innovation and the economy.
“Safe, orderly and regular migration brings positive contributions to our societies. We must work to build greater respect for the dignity and human rights of migrants, and to eliminate all forms of discrimination, including against women, girls, and persecuted minorities.
“Migrants are often subject to inhumane conditions and human rights abuses, such as human trafficking. Migrant women and girls are particularly vulnerable during their journeys and need protection. We must not forget them.
“Today, and every day, Canada is committed to protect and uphold their fundamental rights and freedoms.”
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