Bill C-12 includes many changes around border security along with new ineligibility rules for refugee claimants

Canada’s Liberal government is pushing through sweeping new legislation targeting refugees that observers fear will usher in a new era of US-style border policies, fueling xenophobia and the scapegoating of immigrants.

Bill C-12, or Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System and Borders Act, includes many changes around border security along with new ineligibility rules for refugee claimants.

It was fast-tracked and passed through a third reading in the House of Commons on 11 December before members of Parliament rose for the holidays. If it receives Senate approval in February, the bill will become law.

“It’s very regressive in terms of refugee protection,” said Idil Atak, a professor of refugee and human rights law at Toronto Metropolitan University.