Thank you for the opportunity to appear on this very important subject. As the UN agency serving refugees and asylum seekers in 134 countries and territories, providing technical advice to improve the situation of asylum seekers is an integral part of our advisory role worldwide.
I'd like to begin with some critical figures on the state of global forced displacement to put Canada's current situation in the broader context. In the first six months of this year, an unprecedented 103 million people have been forcibly displaced by persecution, conflict and violence. Two-thirds of this population are hosted by bordering nations that are low- to middle-income countries, often struggling with their own political, economic, and social challenges. While displacement figures continue to rise around the world, solutions have, unfortunately, not kept pace with the average length of displacement, which spans 17 to 20 years.
Regrettably, the absence of meaningful political action to address the root causes of displacement, along with increased conflict, insecurity and the effects of climate change, means that this trend is unlikely to be reversed soon. Included in these statistics are approximately 4.9 million asylum seekers. In this larger context of global displacement, it is important to note that Canada currently receives less than 1% of the world's refugees.
For those refugees who are able to find a solution in Canada, research demonstrates that they make several contributions to this rich and vibrant multicultural society. Census data provides strong empirical support for the claim that Canada's investment in refugees pays off. For instance, after 20 years in Canada, refugees contribute more to income tax than they receive in social supports. Other key metrics, including home ownership, job creation and educational achievements, all point to the conclusion that refugees make substantial contributions to Canada.
Ensuring safe and unimpeded access to asylum is a legal obligation that Canada, along with 148 other states, has committed to honouring. We understand that there are always challenges in receiving asylum seekers and ensuring that these critical rights are safeguarded.
Each time I visit Roxham Road—the most recent occasion being 10 days ago—I am struck by two observations. The first is the humane and dignified approach of authorities and the organized fashion in which Canada processes these claims. The second equally compelling observation that comes from my interactions with asylum seekers on each of these visits is that these are human beings, each with their own individual story to tell, often linked to experiences of trauma, devastation and loss. When they come forward seeking Canada's protection, irrespective of how they arrived, they are exercising their right to do so.
It is critical to note that, when irregular asylum claims are evaluated by Canada's robust system, 61% are accepted as refugees. In human terms, that is six in 10 lives saved from persecution, all unique stories of suffering, survival and resilience. Given Canada's strong and sophisticated system, I have no hesitation in saying that it is well equipped and resourced to continue ensuring safe access to asylum.
As communicated to our counterparts, continuing to strengthen triaging and processing efficiencies to enable flexibility in the face of this increase in claims is a key priority. In this regard, we continue to provide support and work with authorities on possible improvements to eligibility processing at the border, which has seen some delays due to the increasing claims.
While this ongoing effort to strengthen processes is under way, consideration may be given to allowing temporary work permits for asylum seekers who arrive at the border before they are referred to the Immigration and Refugee Board. Canada has had an excellent track record in ensuring that asylum seekers obtain work permits, but recent increases in arrivals have led to delays in eligibility processing and waits of up to 18 months. This is important not only for the economic self-reliance of those who are crossing, but also for their well-being, dignity and overall prospects for integration, not to mention being an important resource for Canada, which is still experiencing labour shortages across many sectors of the economy.
Canada continues to be a source of good practice and positive examples relied on by other countries around the world, and UNHCR remains committed to working with government bodies and civil society to ensure that asylum seekers continue to be received in a manner that upholds international legal obligations.
Thank you.