Race and Racism in Canada’s Immigration Detention System

Authors

Efrat Arbel, Allard School of Law at the University of British ColumbiaFollow
Prasanna Balasundaram
Hanna Gros
Nana Yanful

Faculty Author Type

Current Faculty [Efrat Arbel]

Document Type

Commissioned Report or Study

Publication Date

1-2026

Subjects

race, racism, Canada, immigration, detention

Abstract

Race and Racism in Canada's Immigration Detention System is the first comprehensive, independent study to examine race and racism in Canada's immigration detention system. Grounded in rigorous legal analysis and qualitative research, the study draws on interviews with 50 participants, including people with lived experience of immigration detention, as well as lawyers, paralegals, and service providers who work in immigration detention. The research was guided by an advisory board of people with lived-experience in immigration detention and co-led by a collaborative research team.

Comments

Detention Stories (Website)

Citation Details

E. Arbel, P. Balasundaram, H. Gros & N. Yanful,, Race and Racism in Canada’s Immigration Detention System (January 2026).