
In recent years, Canada has witnessed a significant shift in public sentiment regarding immigration, a topic that has traditionally been a source of pride for the nation. Historically viewed as a welcoming country for newcomers, Canada is now grappling with rising concerns about housing shortages and increasing rents. These issues have been exacerbated by a growing perception that immigration is straining resources, leading to a polarisation of opinions that some believe played a pivotal role in Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s resignation on 6 January 2025. As protests and campaign groups gain traction, the question remains: how will the political landscape evolve, especially with Donald Trump’s return to the U.S. presidency?
The recent housing crisis has brought the immigration debate to the forefront of Canadian politics. A government report released in December highlighted that approximately 2.4 million families are living in inadequate housing, a situation worsened by inflation and rising living costs. This has prompted a surge in public questioning of immigration levels, with a notable increase in the percentage of Canadians who believe that too many immigrants are entering the country. From just 27% in 2022, this figure skyrocketed to 58% by 2024, signalling a dramatic shift in attitudes towards immigration that had previously been considered a taboo subject.
As protests erupt in cities like Ottawa and Vancouver, grassroots movements are amplifying calls for a reassessment of Canada’s immigration policies. Peter Kratzar, the founder of Cost of Living Canada, notes that the housing crisis has made the issue impossible to ignore. The emergence of anecdotal evidence, such as the viral listing of a bedroom in a converted bathroom, has fuelled public frustration, leading to a growing belief that immigration is directly linked to the housing crisis. Keith Neuman, executive director of the Environics Institute for Survey Research, emphasises that Canadians are now more concerned about how the immigration system is managed, marking a significant shift in the national discourse.
Trudeau’s resignation, amid plummeting approval ratings, underscores the gravity of the situation. Once hailed as a progressive leader, his administration’s decision to significantly increase immigration levels post-pandemic has drawn criticism. Although immigration was not the sole reason for his departure, it became a focal point of discontent, with many voters blaming rising housing costs on the influx of newcomers. Experts suggest that while dissatisfaction with immigration is a symptom of broader economic concerns, it reflects Trudeau’s failure to gauge public sentiment accurately.
With the Conservative Party gaining momentum in the polls, the political ramifications of this immigration debate are becoming increasingly apparent. Pierre Poilievre, the Conservative leader, has positioned himself as an advocate for reducing immigration to align with housing growth, tapping into the public’s growing unease. The recent election of Donald Trump in the United States is expected to further inflame these tensions, as his administration’s hardline stance on immigration and border security could resonate with Canadian voters seeking similar policies.
As Canada navigates this complex landscape, the implications for future immigration policies remain uncertain. While some argue that the current crisis is a result of decades of inadequate housing policy rather than immigration itself, the rising tide of anti-immigrant sentiment is concerning. Political leaders like Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow caution against scapegoating newcomers, reminding Canadians of the significant contributions immigrants have made to the country’s fabric. As the nation grapples with these challenges, the pressing question remains: how will Canada balance its historical commitment to multiculturalism with the growing demands for change in immigration policy?