Evaluating the Integration Outcomes of GARs and PSRs in Canada Daniella Dávila Aquije and Heather Paszat

What is Integration? UNHCR (2013): “a mutual, dynamic, multifaceted and on- going process. [It] requires a preparedness to adapt to the lifestyle of the host country without having to lose one’s own cultural identity [and] a willingness for communities to be welcoming and responsive to refugees and for public institutions to meet the needs of a diverse population.” CIC (2009): “Canada’s approach to integration is one that encourages mutual accommodation and adjustment by both newcomers and the larger society…providing newcomers with the support they need [to] realize the full benefits of immigration.”

Barriers to Integration 1.Affordable Housing 2.Physical and Mental Health 3.Language 4.Education 5.Employment and Skills 6.Lack of Access to Social Networks

PSR versus GAR

Benefits of the PSR Sponsors: o Provide PSRs with material goods and employment opportunities o Have connections within ethnic communities or non- governmental entities: they have access to a broader range of services o Can help refugees deal with social inferiority and isolation o Reinforce social cohesion: they provide PSRs access to knowledge on the daily routines and cultural values of their new homes o Offer a human touch

Other Public-Private Partnership Models Finnish Model o Partnership with the Finnish Red Cross and the “family friend” program Swedish Model o Place-based approach to integration o Refugee officers and the involvement of local government

Suggestions for Future Research How does the length of contact (and kind of help offered) of sponsors with PSRs affect integration outcomes? How are PSRs faring after 10+ years compared to GARs? How can the integration be more of a two-way process, with the involvement of more citizens assisting in the resettlement of refugees? How can this be reflected in policy? How would more substantial government support (financial, health benefits, education, training) improve the outcomes of PSRs? Other measures of successful integration?

Conclusion Integration is not simply a matter of the provision of public services Private sponsors can often do more than governments alone to socially integrate refugees Private sponsorship is a unique model, but it can only be truly successful is a robust public-private partnership is formed

Kiitos! Thank You!