In early March 2023, a powerful earthquake struck western Turkey, causing significant damage and loss of life. The earthquake was also felt in neighboring Syria, where many residents have already been displaced by years of conflict.
In response to this disaster, the Canadian government has announced that it will accept more Syrian and Turkish residents, particularly those who have been affected by the earthquake. The details of the program have not yet been announced, but it is expected to prioritize individuals and families who have been directly impacted by the earthquake and are in need of resettlement.
Canada has a long history of welcoming refugees from around the world, and has been particularly active in resettling Syrian refugees in recent years. In 2015, Canada committed to welcoming 25,000 Syrian refugees, and has since resettled over 70,000 refugees from Syria. This latest announcement is a continuation of Canada’s commitment to supporting refugees and displaced persons, particularly in times of crisis.
The Canadian government has not yet provided a timeline for when the additional Syrian and Turkish residents will be accepted, but it is expected that the program will be implemented as soon as possible to provide much-needed assistance to those affected by the earthquake. The government has also pledged to work with international organizations and partners to ensure that the resettlement process is carried out safely and efficiently.
