In November 2025, LEAF provided a submission on Bill C-12, Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System and Borders Act, to the Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration. Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights and Women’s Shelters Canada endorsed our submission.
LEAF strongly urged the Committee to recommend the withdrawal of Bill C-12 in its entirety. The government should instead consult with organizations working to protect refugees and immigration law experts to arrive at a rights-respecting immigration bill.
At an absolute minimum, proposed section 101(1)(b.1) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act must be withdrawn. Barring individuals from claiming refugee protection after one year of entry will put survivors of gender-based violence at risk of further violence and femicide. It will send SOGIESC people to be beaten, imprisoned, and killed in the countries they are fleeing. If Bill C-12 is not withdrawn, we support the Barbara Schlifer Commemorative Clinic’s proposed amendments.
If Bill C-12 is not withdrawn, we supported the Barbara Schlifer Commemorative Clinic’s proposed amendments.
Download the submission or read it below.
Submission-to-the-Standing-Committee-on-Citizenship-and-Immigration-on-Bill-C-12-Final