A growing number of Canadians believe refugees and asylum seekers receive excessive government benefits, according to internal research by the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.
Blacklock's Reporter says the findings align with a decline in public support for high immigration levels, as documented by the Department of Immigration.
A report titled Foresights For Human Rights: 2024 Preliminary Report found that 56% of respondents felt refugees and asylum seekers were granted too many benefits.
Additionally, 41% believed there was too much emphasis on newcomers’ rights.
Public sentiment about immigration’s impact has shifted significantly.
When asked if “immigrants make the country better,” only 44% agreed, down from 52% the previous year. The report noted a growing perception that immigration is linked to economic strain. “More research is needed to understand the roots of this trend,” it stated.
The study also found that 84% of respondents agreed with the statement: “Refugee applicants receive too many benefits that would be better used by Canadians.”
Public trust in media and government regarding human rights issues was also low, with only 13% and 14% expressing “a lot” of trust in these institutions, respectively.
The data, compiled by Probe Research from a survey of 2,500 people nationwide, did not disclose the cost. Museum officials acknowledged the need for deeper analysis. “We are reflecting on several curiosities,” management wrote. “How much do Canadians understand the relationship between economics, immigration, housing and quality of life?”
The report followed an online survey by the immigration department that revealed 47% of Canadians believe the country accepts too many immigrants. The sentiment was even stronger in certain provinces, with 58% in Saskatchewan, 56% in Prince Edward Island, 52% in Ontario, and 48% in Alberta saying immigration levels were too high.
Additionally, 59% of respondents agreed that immigration places too much strain on public services. Another 58% felt Canada should prioritize helping unemployed Canadians over seeking skilled foreign workers.
A further 42% agreed with the statement: “Immigration is causing Canada to change in ways I don’t like.” Meanwhile, 63% believed immigrants need to do more to integrate into Canadian society.
Concerns about economic competition and security risks were also evident. Thirty-two percent said refugees take jobs from Canadians, while 38% viewed refugees as a risk to public safety. A majority—54%—agreed that accepting refugees adds excessive pressure to public services.
