Province Building and the Federalization of Immigration in Canada

Mireille Paquet's book Province Building and the Federalization of Immigration in Canada argues that all ten provinces became closely involved in immigrant selection and integration between 1990 and 2010,as a result of a broader process of federalization of immigration. Provinces developed their own formal immigration strategies and implemented various selections and integration policies,advocating for a province-centred analysis of federalism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 246 pages
Publication date: 04 March 2019
Publisher: University of Toronto Press

The dominant narrative surrounding the provincial role in Canadian immigration often centers on the unique experiences of Quebec. In her book Province Building and the Federalization of Immigration in Canada, Mireille Paquet reveals that, between 1990 and 2010, all ten provinces actively engaged in the selection and integration of immigrants. This significant shift in the Canadian immigration governance model corresponds to a broader process of federalization, wherein both federal and provincial governments assumed active roles in managing immigration. While Canada continues to maintain a generally positive stance towards newcomers, the provinces have developed and continue to refine their own formal immigration strategies and implement various selection and integration policies.

This book makes a compelling argument that federalization is primarily driven by provincial mobilization. In each province, mobilization took place through a modern iteration of province building, this time with a focus on immigrants as valuable resources for provincial economies and societies. Advocating for a province-centered analysis of federalism, Province Building and the Federalization of Immigration in Canada offers valuable insights into understanding the contemporary governance of immigration in Canada.

The book begins by examining the historical context of immigration in Canada, highlighting the role of the provinces in shaping immigration policies and practices. It then explores the federalization of immigration, examining how the federal government's power to regulate immigration has been increasingly delegated to the provinces. The book argues that provincial mobilization is a key factor in this federalization process, as provinces have sought to leverage their economic and social interests to influence immigration policies.

One of the book's key findings is that the provincial role in immigration has evolved over time. Initially, the provinces were primarily responsible for the selection of immigrants, with the federal government playing a more limited role. However, as immigration policies became more complex and contentious, the federal government began to delegate more responsibility to the provinces. This shift has led to a greater diversity of immigration policies and practices across Canada, as each province has developed its own unique approach to managing immigration.

The book also highlights the importance of provincial collaboration in the federalization of immigration. Provinces have worked together to develop common immigration policies and practices, as well as to share resources and expertise in managing immigration. This collaboration has helped to ensure that immigrants are integrated into Canadian society in a fair and equitable manner, and has also contributed to the development of a more cohesive and diverse Canadian identity.

In conclusion, Province Building and the Federalization of Immigration in Canada provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the provincial role in Canadian immigration. By examining the historical, political, and economic factors that have shaped immigration policies and practices, the book offers valuable insights into understanding the contemporary governance of immigration in Canada. It is a must-read for policymakers, researchers, and anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of immigration in Canada.

Weight: 574g
Dimension: 164 x 237 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781487501402