Why Should Canada Prioritize Immigrants from Developed Countries?

There's an ongoing debate about whether Canada should prioritize immigrants from developed countries such as the USA, Western Europe, Japan, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand. This article explores the various perspectives on this issue and the factors that influence immigration policies.

Focus on Skills and Abilities

Canada's immigration system places significant emphasis on skills, abilities, and other characteristics that make immigrants likely to be valuable contributors to Canadian society. The origin of an immigrant, whether from a developing or developed nation, is not a primary consideration.

For instance, a 59-year-old individual living on disability income might be able to hold a useful job in Canada, but the contribution they make to the economy would be minimal. The fact that they are from the USA doesn't play a significant role in the assessment process; being fluent in one of Canada's national languages might provide a slight advantage, but it's not the determining factor.

The core question remains: if a qualified immigrant has the potential to contribute positively to Canadian society, why should their origin matter at all?

Why Immigrants Prefer Developed Nations

People from developed countries often opt to stay in their own countries due to the absence of compelling reasons to move. However, residents of developing nations frequently seek opportunities in developed countries where they can improve their quality of life. What motivates these individuals? There could be various reasons, such as better financial prospects, access to clean water, or the simple joy of enjoying amenities like poutine.

However, from a purely economic standpoint, it's advisable to consider the potential returns on investment in terms of skilled and educated individuals. The USA, for example, has recently faced growing social and political challenges that might deter potential immigrants. Therefore, the attractiveness of moving to Canada may even increase.

Views from a Dual Citizen

Canada's immigration system indeed disregards the country of origin. People migrate to better their lives, and with the opportunities available in underdeveloped countries being far more limited, it's no wonder that most immigrants come from these regions.

As a dual US and Canadian citizen, I chose to retire in Canada over the United States. The reasons for this choice are multifaceted. The USA, marked by frequent mass shootings, book banning, voter suppression, and forced birth laws, is swiftly transforming into a Christo-Fascist hellscape. In contrast, Canada's commitment to freedom, inclusivity, and quality of life remains strong.

While the USA is generally considered a developed country, certain aspects of its current political and social environment make it less attractive to many individuals seeking a better life. Canada's stable economic, social, and political environment offers a more appealing destination.

Conclusion

While Canada's immigration policies are indeed skill-driven and focus on beneficial contributions to society, the origin of an immigrant plays a minimal role in the assessment process. The decision to prioritize immigrants from developed countries should be based on practical considerations such as economic benefits and potential contributions to Canadian society. Additionally, the global socio-political landscape continually changes, influencing the attractiveness of one country over another.