Why US, Canada, Australia & UK banning Indian Immigrants?

 A tsunami of immigration restrictions is sweeping numerous countries both throughout North America and Europe. Once known for their friendly policies, nations currently closing their borders are generating conjecture about the underlying causes of this change and how it may affect immigration going forward.

Immigration has become a divisive issue worldwide in recent years as many nations impose new policies especially aimed at low-income workers and people on temporary visas. Rising worries about economic stresses, packed public services, and housing shortages have driven these reforms. Let's now explore more specifically how this tendency is developing in some of the big nations.

Let's start with Canada's policies against low-paying employment. Historically noted for its open-armed stance to immigrants, Canada has lately retreated. Starting in September 2024, the nation will drastically cut down on the low-wage temporary foreign worker intake. Employers will not be allowed to hire low-wage employ Tuition Fee Waiver plan students in an area of ​​Canada showing an unemployment rate of six percent or above. Furthermore, from 20% to merely 10%, the proportion of TFW's enterprises can hire has been slashed. This action is a component of a larger plan meant to solve problems resulting from Canada's fast population increase.

The nation is struggling with more demand on public services and housing as immigrants flood it. Canada also has caps foreign student visas for two years. This divergence from Canada's historically liberal approach is mostly motivated by concerns that the flood of temporary residents—including overseas students—is taxing the nation's resources. Popular provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Nova Scotia very clearly show these limitations.

Although many Canadians blame the large number of immigrants for aggravating the housing situation, others contend that policy flaws and labor exploitation—rather than the migrants themselves—are the main causes. These policy changes probably impact a lot of migrants, especially the sizable Indian population in Canada, despite the continuous argument.

Turning our attention now to Australia, another highly sought-after immigrant destination, the government has also tightened immigration laws, particularly aimed at overseas students. The Australian government lately set restrictions on the amount of students universities may accept and raised visa charges for overseas students. These steps are meant to lower the nation's net migration rate, which shot to above 500,000 in 2022–23.

By 2025 the government wants this number halved. Australia's choice is partly driven by worries about its large student population stressing public infrastructure and the housing market too much. Like Canada, Australia is trying to balance its social and public service capacities against its economic needs.

The main causes of international students being subject to restrictions in North American and European countries are the constraints on public infrastructure and housing. Particularly affecting Indians, the new immigration policies in Canada, Australia, and other countries will have a major effect on people of Indian descent, who account for a sizable share of the migrant workforce and school enrollment in these countries.

TFWs and overseas students from India have been especially plentiful in Canada. Through the temporary foreign worker program, about 26,495 Indian workers entered Canada in 2023 alone. The decline in low-wage TFW intake would certainly have an impact on Indian workers, many of whom rely on these chances for their living. Furthermore, the cap on new foreign student visas in Canada has clearly caused the Indian student population to drop.

According to reports, this restriction—along with increased financial needs for study permits—is deterring possible Indian students from applying. Diplomatic tensions between Canada and India further complicate the matter since they have helped to lower visa approvals and student enrollment from India.

Over 70,000 foreign student graduates of recent Canadian migration policies in danger of deportation. These graduates—many of whom have finished their degrees and are working in Canada—may now be deported depending on changes in the laws controlling postgraduate work permits and routes to permanent residency. Widespread demonstrations calling for changes or abolition of these laws are being staged around the nation.

Regarding Australia, where a sizable fraction of the foreign student population consists of Indian students, the higher visa fees and intake limits are probably going to discourage many from seeking higher education there. This could cause the number of Indian students to drop as well as reduce the cultural and financial contributions these people make to Australian society. Indians currently in Australia on student visas or temporary work permits may find it difficult to move to permanent residency or land a job as Australia likewise aims to lower its net migration level. 

Germany's Economy Is Hurting Industry & Citizens

 In the past few years, Germany has been having big problems, which has caused its economy to do much worse. Europe's biggest economy is currently going through a period of downturn, and many industries are having a hard time. Because of this systemic problem, Christian, the CEO of Deutsche Bank, has asked everyone to work together to get the business of the country back on track. He stressed how important it was to change the way people work right away and told the German people they needed to work hard to stop more economic downturns.

At a banking summit in Frankfurt, Christian talked about how investors are becoming more worried about Germany's ability to reform and its level of output. He talked about how important it was to change the way people think about work and pushed for longer work weeks with more than 28 hours of work on average. Volkswagen, a German car company, has recently been talking about closing factories, which is the first time in the company's almost nine-decade history that this has been discussed. This has made the economic insecurity even worse. The German manufacturing sector, which used to be strong, is under more pressure because of rising prices and more competition from Chinese companies that make electric cars.
Following a narrow escape from recession earlier in the year, Germany's economy unexpectedly shrank in the second quarter. This has caused concern. With a 0.1% drop in gross domestic product from the previous quarter, Germany's economy did not do as well as experts had hoped. The COVID-19 pandemic and the war between Russia and Ukraine have shown where the Euro Zone's leading economy is weak, making problems like inflation and job losses even worse.

The war in Ukraine and problems with energy supplies have slowed down the manufacturing and export sectors, which are very important to Germany's economy. As a result, big companies have had to rethink how they run their businesses. Germany is vulnerable to outside shocks because it depends on Russian natural gas, which is a key resource for businesses like making cars and glass. Because of the resulting energy problem, many big companies have moved their operations outside of Germany. This is part of a trend called "de-industrialization."

The large number of refugees has also put a strain on Germany's economy, as the country is now home to many people who have been forced to leave their homes. The effects of this problem on society and the economy, along with rising unemployment and less spending by consumers, make it harder for Germany's economy to get better. It is becoming more and more important for the country's long-term growth and stability to find complete answers to these complex problems.

AfD surge alarms German businesses desperate for skilled immigrant labour • FRANCE 24 English

 

We are going to examine some business news now on the program, with Brian Quinn joining us on satday. We start with the historic showing we discussed in the news regarding the far right in German State Legislative elections. The outcome may not be well-received by businesses in the eastern part of the country. Indeed, the German business community has expressed significant concerns about the surge of the far right in recent years.

 

Sunday's electoral results will only exacerbate their worries. The AFD party, which emerged victorious in trinia state, has largely based its platform on opposing immigration. However, German companies are encountering a substantial shortage of skilled labor. The country requires an estimated 400,000 skilled immigrants annually just to sustain its workforce.

 

The demographic crisis is particularly acute in Eastern Germany, where the AFD has experienced its most robust growth in recent times. Thuringia  currently boasts a workforce of approximately 1 million people, but it is projected to lose 385,000 workers over the next decade, resulting in a quarter of jobs in the region remaining unfilled.

 

In Saxony, a fifth of the workforce is expected to retire in less than ten years, leading to a shortfall of around 366,000 jobs. For years, the AFD's xenophobic rhetoric has hindered German companies from attracting talent from abroad to the east. Business leaders in Thuringia  have established an association to counter that rhetoric. They are not only concerned about recruiting workers but also about attracting investment to the region.

 

People may hesitate to relocate to the area with their families as immigrant workers or individuals looking to leave. Potential investors will also question whether they want to establish their company or subsidiary in the region, and if they truly want to commit to the area. There is ample data indicating that foreign labor is crucial to the German economy. 

 

A recent study revealed that the German economy relies on foreign workers for its very survival. The German Economic Institute disclosed its findings shortly before the latest election, stating that in 2023, there were over 400,000 workers with foreign passports employed in Germany's five easternmost states. This figure represents an increase of 173,000 compared to five years ago. These foreign-born workers contributed to the generation of nearly 25 billion EUR in economic activity, accounting for almost 6% of the total for the entire country. In Saxony, where the AFD secured a close second, immigrant labor generated almost 8 billion euros in revenues last year, while in Thuringia , where the AFD emerged victorious, foreign workers created nearly 4 billion. The majority of these workers originate from Poland and the Czech Republic, with many engaged in construction, temporary services, research, and technology. These roles are particularly challenging to fill. As one individual highlighted, "We primarily require workers here. Germany is currently facing economic challenges, and we need skilled workers from abroad." Shifting our focus to today's trading activity, European indices commenced the week relatively flat following the anticipated German electoral outcome.

Volkswagen to Shut German Plants

 the renowned German automotive giant that many are familiar with. The company, along with its array of subsidiaries like Audi, Porsche, and Skoda, collectively forms the Volkswagen Group, solidifying its status as a German and European institution. However, this esteemed company currently finds itself in a difficult situation. Yesterday, in an unprecedented move, the CEO announced intentions to close certain car plants in Germany. This decision marks a significant departure from the group's 87-year history, as Volkswagen has not closed a plant since 1988, when it ceased operations at a facility in the US state of Pennsylvania.

The combination of various factors has led to this significant decision. The primary factor among these is the rise of Chinese electric vehicles (EVs). The increase in EVs, led initially by Tesla and later dominated by Chinese brands like BYD, Nio, and SAIC Motors, has presented a dual challenge for Volkswagen. Firstly, before the emergence of these EV giants, China was Volkswagen's largest market. However, the intrusion of Chinese brands eroded Volkswagen's market share in China, leading to falling profits, stagnant growth, and a decline in share prices. Secondly, the increase of Chinese EV brands in Europe, where electric and hybrid vehicle sales have risen to make up 25% of all European car sales, has further worsened Volkswagen's problems. This situation has led Volkswagen to lose ground in both China and Europe to Chinese competitors.

While Volkswagen tried to shift towards EV production, this strategic change has brought its own challenges. European EVs, produced at European wage rates, are naturally more expensive than their Chinese counterparts. This difference in pricing has made European EVs less competitive in a market known for price sensitivity and fierce competition. In an attempt to circumvent this issue, some European companies, including Volkswagen, chose to establish production facilities in China. However, this decision was met with another setback in the form of European tariffs on Chinese-made EVs, with the EU imposing tariffs of up to 38% on such vehicles, including those manufactured by European brands like Volkswagen.

Amidst this backdrop, the broader economic downturn in Europe, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions, has further reduced demand for cars. Germany, specifically, teeters on the brink of recession, casting a shadow over Europe's economic prospects. With European car sales already sluggish and the EV debacle adding to Volkswagen's woes, the German automotive giant finds itself at a crossroads. Faced with the imperative of slashing costs by a staggering 11 billion euros over the next two years to weather the EV transition, Volkswagen is compelled to contemplate further plant closures and workforce reductions. These developments underscore the profound impact of the EV revolution on traditional automotive stalwarts like Volkswagen.

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Did France conquer Muslim countries and persecute Muslims?

 Are the French still occupying Muslim land and using natural resources?

Historical Context:

• Conquest and Persecution: Historically, France has been involved in the colonization of several Muslim-majority countries, most notably Algeria, which began in 1830. This colonization involved significant military conquest, followed by administrative control, cultural assimilation policies, and economic exploitation, which could be interpreted as forms of persecution. The French colonial period in Algeria, for instance, saw policies aimed at integrating Algeria into France, which included significant cultural suppression and economic exploitation, often to the detriment of the local Muslim population.
• End of Colonial Occupation: The major colonial period ended with the Algerian War of Independence (1954-1962), leading to Algeria's independence. However, the legacy of this period includes ongoing debates about cultural identity, resource control, and historical grievances.

Current Situation:

• Occupation: As of 2024, France does not occupy Muslim lands in the sense of direct colonial control. However, France, like many former colonial powers, maintains military bases in several African countries, some of which have significant Muslim populations, under agreements with those nations' governments. These military presences are often justified as support against terrorism or for peacekeeping but can be seen by some as a form of neo-colonial presence.
• Resource Use: France, along with other nations, engages in trade, investment, and sometimes resource extraction in former colonies or Muslim-majority countries. While this is typically done through legal frameworks and agreements, critics might argue that these economic relationships continue to favor France due to historical ties, economic dependencies established during colonial times, or through international trade agreements that might not always be on equal terms.

What could be the consequences of stripping Qatar of its major no nATO ally status?

The discussion around stripping Qatar of its major non-NATO ally (MNNA) status and imposing sanctions on Al Jazeera involves complex geopolitical considerations, reflecting both strategic alliances and media influence. Here's an overview based on the information available up to September 2024: - **Qatar's MNNA Status**: Qatar was designated as a major non-NATO ally by the United States, which provides benefits in defense trade and security cooperation. This status was seen as enhancing U.S.-Qatar relations, particularly in military cooperation, as evidenced by joint military exercises and the strategic importance of Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar for U.S. operations in the Middle East. - **Criticism and Legislative Moves**: There has been legislative action in the U.S., with bills introduced to review or potentially revoke Qatar's MNNA status due to allegations of support for Hamas. Critics argue that Qatar's role in mediating conflicts, particularly with its financial support to Gaza and its relationship with Hamas, might undermine U.S. interests or security. - **Al Jazeera's Role**: Al Jazeera, funded by Qatar, has been criticized for its coverage, particularly accused of anti-Israel bias and incitement. This criticism has led to calls for sanctions or actions against the network, with some suggesting it acts as a mouthpiece for Islamist views or even terrorist propaganda. - **Public Sentiment and Media Coverage**: X posts reflect a range of sentiments from outright criticism of Al Jazeera for perceived bias to broader geopolitical discussions on Qatar's influence through its media and financial support in the Middle East. There's a noticeable call for accountability regarding how Qatar uses its influence, especially in conflict zones like Gaza. - **Geopolitical Implications**: Stripping Qatar of its MNNA status or sanctioning Al Jazeera would have significant geopolitical repercussions. Qatar has positioned itself as a mediator in various conflicts, including the Israel-Hamas issue, which some see as a constructive role, while others view it as problematic interference. Such actions could affect not just bilateral relations but also the broader stability in the Middle East, given Qatar's role in energy markets and its strategic military partnerships. - **Strategic Considerations**: The U.S. and other allies might weigh the benefits of maintaining strong ties with Qatar due to its strategic military base, economic influence through LNG exports, and its mediation efforts against the criticisms regarding its media and political stances. Given this context, any decision to alter Qatar's MNNA status or impose sanctions on Al Jazeera would involve balancing strategic military and economic interests with ideological and security concerns. The debate reflects broader tensions between realpolitik and ideological alignments in international relations, especially in regions as volatile as the Middle East.

How Oman’s $2.6B ‘Smart’ City Megaproject Disrupts the Dubai Archetype | WSJ Breaking Ground

 

with its low buildings, long history, and large local population, Muscat has been described by some as the antithesis of Dubai. However, as Oman looks towards an economic future without oil, the country is striving to modernize its capital by investing billions of dollars into projects across the nation. One of these transformative projects is Sultan Heyam City, which presents a new paradigm for Middle Eastern development, diverging from the typical Dubai archetype. While other countries in the region grapple with executing ambitious visions, Sultan Heyam City aims to offer a more pragmatic model for a Middle Eastern city.

Situated between the Gulf of Oman and the Hajar Mountains, Muscat is home to approximately one-third of the country's rapidly expanding population. With a current population of around 5.2 million people, Oman anticipates a 50% increase by 2040, reaching 7.7 million. To accommodate this growth, the country is investing in numerous projects, with Sultan Heyam City being one of the most significant undertakings. Envisioned to house 100,000 residents across more than a dozen neighborhoods, the city will also feature 25 mosques and 39 schools. Despite being a landmark project in a Middle Eastern capital, Sultan Heyam City's scale and budget are relatively modest compared to developments in neighboring countries.

For instance, the NEOM project in Saudi Arabia is expected to accommodate 200,000 residents with an estimated cost of $100 billion, while Egypt's controversial new administrative capital, designed for over 6 million people, is projected to cost around $58 billion. Oman's more modest ambitions stem from both financial constraints and a deliberate focus on preserving its unique local atmosphere, where native Omanis live and work within the city. In contrast, cities like Dubai have a smaller percentage of their population comprised of local citizens.

During a visit to Muscat, it became evident that the Omani hosts were resolute in their desire to differentiate their city from becoming another Dubai. The success of the new model embodied by Sultan Heyam City, set to be completed by 2045, hinges on convincing local residents to embrace this innovative urban concept. Despite Oman's high rate of home ownership, the government faces challenges in addressing major housing issues and transitioning people towards denser urban living to alleviate the sprawling nature of Muscat.

While many Middle Eastern countries have enriched their citizens through oil revenues, Oman must navigate a housing policy that balances development with sustainability. Sultan Heyam City aims to introduce denser neighborhoods while preserving the privacy of individual villas, alongside plans for a mass transit system to connect the new city with the existing metro lines in Muscat. Moreover, the city's housing initiatives cater not only to locals but also to expatriates and visitors, aligning with Oman's strategic focus on tourism and international investment.

Although Oman currently attracts fewer tourists compared to its neighbors, the country's picturesque landscapes and historical sites hold promise for drawing visitors seeking a safe and politically stable destination. Despite the allure of emulating neighboring metropolises like Dubai, Oman must tread carefully to maintain its local character amidst modernization efforts. Balancing grandeur with intimacy and human scale is a delicate task that Oman must undertake to ensure sustainable growth and social harmony in the long run.

 

How Orban’s “Pro-Baby” Policies are Bankrupting Hungary

 Hungary has gained recognition in recent years for its efforts to incentivize family expansion, aiming to address the country's declining population. The conservative populist Prime Minister, Victor Orban, has made it a priority to reverse this demographic decline through the promotion of family-friendly policies. This has been a cornerstone of his political agenda since 2011. He has introduced a variety of tax benefits, subsidies, and financial assistance programs for young families. However, these pro-family incentives come at a substantial cost.

 

In the current year's financial plan, an approximate sum of 7.3 billion will be allocated to Family Support, which is equivalent to about 5% of the nation's GDP, exceeding the expenditure on defense by more than twofold. I  will explore the reasoning behind Orban's introduction of these significant family subsidies, examine their practical implementation, and, most importantly, assess their true effectiveness.

 

As we all know that the global fertility rates have been declining significantly over the years, with more than half of all nations having rates below the sustainable threshold of 2.1 children per woman, as reported by the United Nations.

Within the European Union, the fertility rate is notably low at 1.46, below the replacement rate, causing concerns among European authorities about their demographic future, based on recent Eurostat data. Despite the overall trend, Prime Minister Orban of Hungary is determined to address the declining fertility rate in his country without relying on increased immigration.

 

 

Orban has built his political campaigns on anti-immigration sentiments, emphasizing the importance of Hungarian offspring and promoting traditional Christian family values to increase birth rates and secure support from conservative and traditional demographics.

 

 

 

He has established a goal for the nation to attain the replacement rate of 2.1 births per woman by 2030, a challenging objective considering that no European country is in proximity to this target. How does he intend to accomplish this ambitious goal? Since 2011, Orban has introduced over 30 forms of family benefits that have effectively alleviated the financial burden of raising children. One pivotal policy has been the enactment of family-friendly taxation.

 

 

In 2011, the Hungarian government implemented a substantial benefit for employed parents - a reduction in personal income tax, with the tax burden diminishing as the number of children in a household increases. Since 2020, Hungarian citizens have been eligible to apply this deduction to their pensions and health insurance contributions as well. Furthermore, in 2015, the government introduced a tax exemption for newly married couples, and in 2020, Hungary emerged as the inaugural European nation to bestow a perpetual personal income tax exemption upon mothers with four or more children. This endeavor was a component of a new flagship program unveiled by Orban in 2019, recognized as The seven-point Family Protection action plan.

 

 

Notably, this initiative encompassed an innovative loan program tailored for married couples, enabling them to acquire up to €30,000, which they are exempt from repaying should they have three or more children. Furthermore, the loan can be utilized for any purpose chosen by the couple and carries no interest. The incentives to encourage childbirth extend beyond this. Since 2015, the Hungarian government has allocated resources to ease the acquisition of family residences through the family housing allowance scheme. This endeavor provides significant subsidies to families seeking to buy or build new homes, with the subsidies escalating as couples expand their offspring. Regrettably, Orban's endeavors have produced varying outcomes at most. Hungary's fertility rate has surged by around 25% from a historic low of 1.23 in 2011 to 1.56 in 2022, surpassing the EU average of 1.5.

 

 

Marriage rates have also doubled from 3.6 marriages per 1,000 individuals in 2011 to 7.4 in 2021, significantly exceeding the EU average of 3.9 that year. In the previous year, Orban's chief of staff proudly proclaimed that 160,000 children would not have been brought into existence between 2011 and 2021 without Orban's family policies, which have received global recognition from conservative leaders and prominent personalities, including the pope, US tech tycoon Elon Musk, and most recently, Donald Trump's vice-presidential candidate, JD Vance. Nevertheless, it has become increasingly apparent that these policies possess certain constraints.

A significant decline in fertility rates has been observed in Hungary since 2022, with the most recent data showing a further decrease to 1.36, the lowest in a decade, and projections indicate the country is on track for the most substantial annual decline in the EU..

 

 

Subsidized loans and income tax breaks provide little assistance to individuals without enough financial resources to buy a home or a vehicle, or those earning below the income tax payment threshold.

Orban's policies seem to have mainly accelerated childbirth among women who already planned to have children, implying that while his subsidies may have prompted young individuals to have children sooner with financial incentives, this approach is not sustainable in the long run.

 

 

 Pro-natal policies in Hungary primarily benefit families with two children, neglecting the growing trend of single individuals and couples choosing not to have children since 2011.

2. Initially praised in Europe, Hungary's pro-natal policies are now under scrutiny as Prime Minister Orban allocates a substantial 5% of GDP to these initiatives despite the continuous decline in birth rates.

Critics argue that financial incentives alone cannot solve the global demographic crisis, highlighting the unaddressed issue of the rising number of people opting out of parenthood.

 

 

 Despite mounting evidence, Orban remains resolute, promising further subsidies and contemplating extending a lifelong income tax exemption to mothers with three children as well, despite Hungary's deficit ballooning to nearly 7% of GDP, strains on public services, and reductions in welfare payments to fund these programs, rendering them increasingly unpopular. Understanding such complexities is crucial, albeit challenging.

 

 

Why The Two-State Solution Never Worked?

 The Two State Solution, which aimed to establish separate states for Israelis and Palestinians in the region, has faced numerous challenges and obstacles that have prevented its successful implementation. Despite the noble intentions behind the Two State Solution, various factors have contributed to its inability to materialize in a sustainable manner.

1. Security Concerns:One of the primary reasons why the Two State Solution has been elusive is the deeply rooted security concerns on both sides. For Israelis, the fear of terrorist attacks and the need to protect their citizens have been significant barriers. Similarly, Palestinians have legitimate security apprehensions stemming from decades of occupation and conflict. For example, the ongoing threat of rocket attacks from Gaza into Israeli territory has perpetuated a cycle of violence and mistrust.

2. Settlements:The expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank has been a major point of contention. The growth of these settlements not only violates international law but also complicates the territorial integrity of a future Palestinian state. As new settlements continue to be built, the prospect of a contiguous and viable Palestinian state diminishes. This is evident in the case of Ariel, a large Israeli settlement deep in the West Bank, which poses a significant obstacle to the contiguity of Palestinian lands.

3. Jerusalem:The status of Jerusalem remains a deeply divisive issue that has impeded progress towards a Two State Solution. Both Israelis and Palestinians consider Jerusalem as their capital, leading to fierce disagreements over its future. The historical and religious significance of the city further complicates matters, with sites like the Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif being of utmost importance to both sides. The complexity of the Jerusalem question is exemplified by the clashes that often erupt at the holy sites, underscoring the deeply entrenched emotions tied to the city.

4. Refugee Issue:The unresolved refugee crisis has been a persistent stumbling block in peace negotiations. The plight of Palestinian refugees, many of whom have been displaced for generations, adds a layer of complexity to the conflict. The right of return for Palestinian refugees to their ancestral homes in present-day Israel is a deeply emotional issue that remains unresolved. The overcrowded refugee camps in Gaza and the West Bank serve as a constant reminder of the unresolved refugee crisis, fueling a sense of injustice and dispossession among Palestinians.

5. Lack of Trust:Years of conflict and hostility between Israelis and Palestinians have eroded trust to a point where building mutual confidence seems like an insurmountable task. The history of broken agreements, violent confrontations, and deep-seated animosity has created a pervasive atmosphere of distrust. Instances like the Second Intifada and the Gaza wars have further deepened the divide between the two communities, making it challenging to envision a future based on cooperation and coexistence.

These challenges underscore the complexity of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the arduous path towards achieving a lasting peace. Despite the persistent efforts and diplomatic initiatives aimed at resolving the conflict, the road to a Two State Solution remains fraught with obstacles and uncertainties.

 

Australia Begin Cancelling All Visas? New Legislation Passed

 The government continues to deny and revoke permits based on character concerns. Our first year of government has seen no changes to Section 51. New laws have almost increased the total number of those removed from immigration detention. Individuals who intended to commit crimes upon arriving in Australia have been arrested, and their visas have been revoked by the Australian government. A person whose visa was renewed now finds himself accused of murder in Brisbane. Prior to meeting the police, CCTV footage shows him throwing a bag full of meth onto the rooftop. Immigration Minister Andrew Giles later revoked his visa and ordered an immediate review of many others.

Anthony Albanese, prime minister, confirmed that a fresh ministerial decree addressing visa cancellations will be issued. The minister stated their intention to review recent judgments and, if necessary, implement a more sensible strategy. The minister wishes to issue a new directive as it is the most practical way to ensure better conclusions by tribunal members. This event aligns with the publication of new information by the Australian Border Force on the 153 individuals released from immigration detention.

Officials disclosed that ten former detainees are currently in detention following last year's historic High Court decision. Among them, five have been accused of federal crimes, and 29 are facing state or territory-level charges. The charges include kidnapping, assault, threats to kill, weapon possession, police, and domestic violence order breaches. It has been revealed that three of those accused of state or territorial charges were not under electronic monitoring, and four were not subject to a curfew during the alleged offenses. Considering the seriousness of the allegations inmates faced, Shadow Home Affairs Minister James P questioned why freed detainees were not subject to conditions. He emphasized the importance of strict surveillance, especially for individuals with a history of serious crimes.

The High Court's decision last year declared indefinite immigration detention for those unable to be removed as illegal, resulting in their release. This decision poses significant challenges for the federal government. Recently, a former prisoner allegedly attacked an elderly woman in Perth in a violent home invasion. Following revelations that a directive issued by the immigration minister in January last year allowed convicted offenders to remain in Australia, the government has faced continuous criticism. When determining visa cancellation or restoration, the order prioritized an individual's community ties and length of residence in Australia.

One person, whose visa was reinstated under the former policy, is now accused of murder in Brisbane. Andrew Giles, the immigration minister, has revoked that visa and demanded a quick review of many more. The revised directive currently in place aims to prioritize community protection above all else. Early 2023 saw the implementation of Ministerial Direction 99, a departing order meant to address issues expressed by previous New Zealand administrations on the repatriation of criminals with New Zealand citizenship but little ties to the nation. As a result of the previous directive's effects, the Coalition emphasized cases where the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) reinstated visas for convicted criminals, such as drug smugglers, armed robbers, and rapists.

The immigration minister criticized several AAT decisions that she deemed lacking in common sense. Under the new ministerial direction, the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) will adopt a more practical approach to visa decisions. By prioritizing community safety and considering the impact of decisions on crime victims and their families, the new directive will enhance provisions related to family violence, aligning with the government's pledge to combat violence against children and women.  

Indian Students Protest Against Canada’s New Immigration Policy

 Hundreds of Indian students are currently staging protests in Canada against the new federal policy that places them at risk of deportation. This new immigration policy has cast uncertainty over the future of over 70,000 student graduates. Indian students have been demonstrating in front of the legislative assembly in Canada's Prince Edward Island Province, while provinces such as Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia are also witnessing similar protests.

The new immigration policy in Canada aims to significantly reduce the number of permanent residency nominations. The government's objective is to decrease permanent residency nominations by 25% in response to the local housing and job crisis. Experts attribute Canada's new immigration policy to the rapid population growth in recent years. According to data from the federal agency, approximately 97% of Canada's total population increase was due to immigration. By limiting this growth through cutting down on permanent residency nominations, Canada hopes to address its job and housing crisis.

Securing permanent residency in Canada has been a key pathway for Indians to stay in the country. However, with the recent amendments, work permits will be withheld in areas where the unemployment rate is 6% or higher. These changes, though, will not impact sectors such as agriculture, food processing, construction, and healthcare.

These ongoing discussions are being taken very seriously, especially in light of the challenges faced over the past years, from the pandemic to severe labor shortages to the current situation. The government is committed to responding to the needs of Canadians, businesses, and the economy by constantly adapting and ensuring alignment with the current circumstances.

In the upcoming fall, Canada will present an immigration levels plan that encompasses not only permanent residents but also temporary residents, including foreign workers. The aim is to design a comprehensive plan that caters to the needs of Canadians and the economy. The initial steps involve reducing the number of low-paid temporary foreign workers allowed to work in the country. In the next 90 days, higher wage streams of temporary workers will be assessed alongside unemployment rates to make further adjustments.

This shift is likely to impact thousands of Indian students aspiring to relocate to developed Western nations, many of whom have traditionally pursued the study visa route. The number of Indians moving to Canada has quadrupled in the last decade, from 33,000 in 2013 to nearly 140,000 in 2023. Indian immigrants constitute the largest group seeking permanent residency in Canada.

Earlier this year, Ottawa announced a cap on international students, citing concerns that it was being used as a gateway for entry into Canada. Another issue for international students and temporary workers is the expiration of work permits upon completing their studies. While many students are eligible for a post-graduation work permit to gain work experience, this permit is time-limited, typically lasting between 6 months to 3 years. Failure to secure permanent residency within this timeframe could lead to departure from Canada.

As protests continue to unfold nationwide, the Canadian government is under mounting pressure to address the grievances of international students and temporary foreign workers. Without significant changes or reversals, many of these individuals may be compelled to leave.

 

Australia Puts Limit on International Students

Each year, over a million individuals from India embark on journeys abroad for advanced education. They seek enrollment in esteemed institutions across nations such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. Indians rank among the most prevalent foreign scholars in these countries, closely followed by students from China, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia.

However, certain nations are now endeavoring to curtail the influx of international students. Australia stands as the latest example, with a notable increase of approximately 10% in international student numbers within our universities compared to pre-pandemic figures, and a striking surge of about 50% in private vocational and training providers. It is now confirmed that, pending the bill's approval, the total intake of international students commencing courses next year will be capped at 270,000, encompassing both higher education and vocational training programs.

Australia has set a restriction on international student admissions until 2025, permitting only 270,000 international students to enter the country. Each category of educational institution will have its own designated quota: public universities can enroll 145,000 students, private universities 30,000 students, and vocational education institutions 95,000 students. Noteworthy institutions like Melbourne University and Sydney University have already been assigned their respective enrollment limits.

This development mirrors a trend seen in Canada, where a similar cap was imposed on student enrollments earlier this year. Canada reduced study permits for international students by 35%, indicating a deliberate focus on regulating foreign student intake. Despite the economic contributions made by foreign students—generating billions of dollars through higher tuition fees that, in turn, subsidize local education—Australia and Canada find themselves compelled to address housing crises and rising rents. Consequently, both countries have adopted a somewhat anti-immigrant stance, ascribing blame to migrants for these societal challenges.

The underlying political motivations driving these decisions cannot be overlooked. With elections looming next year in Australia and Canada, incumbent parties are keen to appease local sentiments and retain power. By targeting migrants, particularly international students, they aim to address public concerns regarding housing affordability and immigration impacts. This shift in policy may not only influence the educational landscape but also potentially impact post-college job prospects for international students.

For those aspiring to pursue studies abroad, these developments underscore the vulnerability of foreign students as convenient scapegoats for broader societal issues. Despite the financial investments made in pursuit of a better future, international students remain subject to the whims of host countries' changing policies and sentiments. While the pursuit of overseas education has always entailed challenges, the current climate suggests an added layer of complexity and uncertainty.

In conclusion, the pursuit of education across borders continues to attract millions seeking better opportunities and experiences. Amidst evolving policies and socio-political dynamics, international students navigate a landscape where adaptability and resilience are paramount.