Strong Borders bill raises concerns for foreign dissidents seeking asylum in Canada

Experts are raising alarms about Bill C-2, Canada's Strong Borders legislation, which could prevent persecuted dissidents, journalists, and human rights activists from obtaining asylum hearings if they previously visited Canada. The bill's current language starts the one-year eligibility period after "first entry," potentially barring individuals who attended conferences or visited as children years before facing persecution. Legal experts advocate for exceptions protecting genuine asylum seekers with previous Canadian connections, calling for "clear carve-outs" for those fleeing political violence or state persecution.

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