Canadian Council for Refugees statement on Roxham Road crossings

In response to the recent media coverage and focus on people making refugee claims at Roxham Road, the Canadian Council for Refugees (CCR) published a statement to highlight the need for rights and respect of all seeking protection. The statement reaffirms Canada’s commitment to protect those fleeing violence and persecution and seeking refuge in Canada.

A few key points of the statement include:

  • Canada has legal obligations towards refugees at our borders,

  • The USA is not safe for all refugees,

  • Canada is receiving only a small number of the world’s displaced,

  • People use irregular channels because Canada blocks regular channels,

  • And all levels of government should respect the dignity of refugee claimants and provide basic support.

As a member of CCR, Matthew House Ottawa advocates for refugee claimants and the support they need when entering the country.

Read the full statement below:

Refugee, ImpactBrynn Brieda