In light of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s re-election, Canadian authorities are preparing for an anticipated rise in asylum-seekers entering Canada. During Trump’s previous administration, strict immigration policies drove thousands of individuals to seek refuge in Canada, and similar conditions may prompt a new wave of asylum-seekers.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has been strategizing for this possibility, particularly along Quebec’s borders. According to RCMP Sergeant Charles Poirier, the focus is on avoiding the pressures experienced in 2017 when asylum-seekers often crossed at places like Roxham Road. With recent agreements between Canada and the U.S., border control now mandates that anyone attempting to cross outside formal checkpoints be turned back unless they meet specific exemptions, further complicating matters for those seeking entry.
Canadian immigrant advocacy groups, such as The Refugee Centre in Montreal, have raised concerns that these limited pathways could lead to people taking significant risks to reach safety. As a contingency, the RCMP is ready to deploy additional officers, increase patrols, and set up temporary facilities if needed.
