What is the True Face of Canadian Convention Refugee Adjudication? (with some additional comments about the United States)

Canada was once considered the world model for convention refugee (or asylum) adjudication. However, there have been considerable changes in the adjudicatory process and in attitudes expressed by the governments of the day. There has been increased criticism of the Canadian approach during the twenty-first century. Recent actions of the Harper government suggest an approach akin to that of Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States, showing some hostility towards convention refugee applicants who have reached their shores.  New legislation undermines the fairness of the application process. While making some observations about the United States asylum process, I will discuss new developments in Canada.