“Adopting a comprehensive, gender-responsive and rights-based regularization scheme is essential to addressing the unique challenges faced by migrant women with lived experiences of Gender-Based Violence and human trafficking.”

That is one of the main conclusions of the paper Ensuring Equity: Advancing immigration pathways for women with lived experience of gender-based violence and human trafficking, recently published by the FCJ Refugee Centre’s Migrant Women’s Counter Human Trafficking Alliance.

The paper discussed the multifaced issue of Gender-Based Violence, with a particular focus on the unique challenges faced by migrant women in Canada.

Drawing on the work of the Migrant Women’s Alliance at FCJ Refugee Centre, it outlines the structural barriers that migrant women face due to their precarious immigration status, including dependence on spousal sponsorship and limited pathways to permanent residence for migrant workers and caregivers.

It also reviews existing immigration resources for addressing GBV and human trafficking, pointing to the uncertainty surrounding remedies such as Temporary Resident Permits (TRPs), long processing times, and inconsistent outcomes.

The report concludes that “by implementing both temporary and permanent pathways, dismantling systemic barriers, and ensuring safer access to supports and services, the Government of Canada can significantly enhance the protection and empowerment of these women.”

“Such measures not only provide immediate relief and security but also contribute to long-term stability and integration, fostering a more inclusive and just society,” it adds.

Download the report here: