Globalization, Immigration, and the Gender Implications of Not Just Numbers in Canada

Abstract

The immigration of refugees in Canada has always been gendered. Today, the majority of refugees to this country continue to be male, while family class immigrants are more often female. Social integration and labour market articipation upon arrival also vary tremendously by gender, among other factors. The recent Legislative Review, entitled Not Just Numbers, has important gender implications for future immigration to Canada. The author argues that the proposals outlined promote economic self sufficiency and global competitiveness as the basis for future immigration, refugees being the sole exception. The Review is analyzed in relation to Saskia Sassen's work on globalization, immigration, and the "new geography of power." The gendered implications of the Review's proposals are discussed with specific reference to refugees, domestic caregivers, and family class immigrants.