Canada is often hailed as a beacon of hope for individuals seeking a better life. It attracts immigrants from around the world, including those fleeing tyranny, political persecution, human rights abuses, and other dire circumstances. For instance, the “Arab Spring” prompted many to leave their home countries in search of stability and opportunities.
While Canada’s immigration policy admirably strives to balance humanitarian aid with economic labor market needs, it overlooks a critical factor: the alignment of immigrants’ values with foundational Western principles.
This missing criterion—an immigrant’s approach to Western values—is crucial. In a world increasingly divided by competing ideologies, it is essential for Canada to ensure that newcomers share, or are at least open to, the democratic ideals, human rights principles, and social norms that underpin Canadian society. Failure to address this gap could lead to long-term social and security challenges.
Recent events highlight the risks of neglecting this issue. Demonstrations across Canadian cities have included chants of “Death to Canada,” “Death to Israel,” and “Death to America.” These incidents were not isolated. For example, protests in Toronto and Montreal in late 2023 drew attention for inflammatory rhetoric and displays of hatred, some involving individuals from immigrant backgrounds. Social media further amplifies this sentiment, with posts from individuals who have benefited from Canada’s generosity yet openly call for the dismantling of Western values.
The problem is not unique to Canada. European nations provide cautionary examples. Countries such as France, Germany, and Sweden have faced significant challenges integrating certain immigrant populations. In some cases, cultural and ideological clashes have resulted in parallel societies where immigrants reject the values of their host nations. For instance, no-go zones in parts of Europe—areas where state authorities struggle to enforce laws—highlight the consequences of failing to ensure value alignment during the immigration process. Tensions over issues such as women’s rights, freedom of speech, and secular governance illustrate the potential for conflict when integration efforts falter.
Canada can learn from these experiences. A comprehensive immigration policy must go beyond economic and humanitarian considerations to include an evaluation of prospective immigrants’ willingness to embrace Canadian values. While this may seem controversial or invasive, it is a fundamental right and responsibility of any nation to preserve its cultural and social framework. By addressing this gap, Canada would not only protect its democratic principles but also foster more cohesive communities.
Practical steps could include requiring immigrants to declare their stance on key social values during the application process. This might involve affirming support for gender equality, freedom of speech, and the rule of law. Additionally, Canada could implement mandatory orientation programs for newcomers, emphasizing the country’s core principles and expectations. Such measures would not only aid integration but also reassure Canadians that their government is taking proactive steps to safeguard the nation’s identity.
Critics may argue that introducing value-based criteria risks alienating or excluding deserving applicants. However, this is not about rejecting those in need; rather, it is about ensuring that immigrants are prepared to contribute positively to Canadian society. A values-based approach would also provide an opportunity for honest dialogue, helping to identify areas where newcomers may need support in adapting to their new environment.
Canada’s history as a welcoming and diverse nation is one of its greatest strengths. To preserve this legacy, the government must address the blind spot in its immigration policy. The long-term social harmony and security of the nation depend on it. As immigration continues to shape Canada’s future, integrating a values-based criterion is not only reasonable but essential for the country to thrive in an increasingly divided world.
Dotan Rousso was born and raised in Israel and holds a Ph.D. in Law. He is a former criminal prosecutor in Israel. He currently lives in Alberta and teaches Philosophy at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT).
