UN Report Labels Canada’s Foreign Worker Program as ‘Contemporary Slavery’ Amid Exploitation Concerns

The United Nations has issued a stern warning to Canada, alleging that the country’s temporary foreign worker program could jeopardize its reputation as a global advocate for human rights. The report, based on a special rapporteur’s visit to Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Edmonton last year, highlights severe issues within the program.

The report documents widespread cases of sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse among temporary foreign workers. Workers have reported being advised to use painkillers or home remedies for health problems and being forced to share inadequate facilities, such as a single washroom among 20 to 30 people.

The UN’s critique focuses on Canada’s closed work permits, which tie workers to specific employers and potentially foster exploitation. These permits can lead to situations where employers control workers’ access to housing, healthcare, and even their migration status. In response to these concerns, a Senate committee recommended phasing out closed work permits within the next three years and exploring regional or sectoral permits.

However, industry groups have cautioned against eliminating these permits entirely, suggesting that stricter enforcement and compliance measures should address the issues rather than overhauling the entire system. They argue that the focus should be on tackling abuse and ensuring that existing rules are enforced effectively.

The number of temporary foreign workers in Canada has surged from 84,000 in 2018 to approximately 150,000 last year. This increase has been driven not just by agricultural needs but also by the demand for low-wage workers in sectors like fast food.

Last week, the Canadian government indicated that it is considering restricting applications to the low-wage worker stream. The UN report emphasizes the need for better pathways to permanent residency and equal rights for temporary foreign workers to prevent further exploitation and uphold Canada’s human rights standards.

The UN’s call for reform places additional pressure on the Canadian government to address these critical issues and ensure that its labor practices align with its commitment to human rights.