The government of Canada accepts more and more vulnerable Afghan nationals each week, including women leaders.
Under the special humanitarian program, Canada has accepted 8,680 Afghan refugees. According to the government's new update, many organizations and institutions in Canada are providing valuable career opportunities to Afghan women and girls.
The School of Journalism and Communication at Carleton University has been hosting prominent Afghan journalist and human rights defender Farida Nekzad since December 2021. In addition, the Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS) has hired Sheila Qayumi who supported women networks in 20 Afghan provinces.
Resettlement poses challenges for many newcomers, but it can be particularly difficult for women and girls. The government supports the efforts of trusted community partners to assist them in integrating into their new lives in Canada.
The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship stated that,
"These brave and formidable women, who now call Canada home, deserve to have their voices heard. I am proud to see Canadian organizations step up to defend Afghan women’s rights and dignity and give these women a platform to advocate for and support other women. These are great examples of how Canadians come together to help resettle some of the world’s most vulnerable."