On November 16, 2021, WRMC Member and Canadian Independent Senator Ratna Omidvar delivered opening remarks at the panel discussion “Solidarity with Afghan Women: A Policy Perspective” to discuss the ways Canada can better support Afghan women. Below is a summary of the Senator’s remarks: Horror has taken place in Afghanistan since July and continues today. […]
Wholesale Corruption Causing a Democracy Deficit
When Canadian foreign minister François-Philippe Champagne touched down in Beirut in late August to survey the damage from the disastrous explosion that killed hundreds, injured thousands and left hundreds of thousands homeless, he had a clear message for Lebanese President Michel Aoun: Canadian aid would be contingent on “real reforms” to the country’s political system. […]
Frozen Assets Repurposing Act Tabled in Canadian Senate
Independent Canadian Senator and World Refugee & Migration Council member Ratna Omidvar has tabled Bill S-217, the Frozen Assets Repurposing Act in the Senate. As Senator Omidvar has noted, the Magnitsky Act and other legislation currently allows the Government of Canada to freeze the assets of corrupt foreign officials. But this new bill asks Canada […]
North American Leaders Summit: Toward Regional Cooperation on Migration
While not initially at the top of the agenda, migration and forced displacement in the Americas was an important part of the North American Leaders Summit. Read how.
Lawful, Safe Pathways Needed to Resolve Border Chaos
This week, as Canada, Mexico and the United States meet for the long-awaited North American Leaders Summit, is an opportune moment for bold action to create alternative migration pathways for Northern Central Americans.