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Call to protect 'mail-order' brides |
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The government must do more to protect foreign women who emigrate from
countries such as the Philippines to marry Canadian men, says Green
Party of Canada leader Jim Harris.
He said many of these 'mail-order brides' have reported spousal exploitation and abuse once they arrived in Canada.
The mail-order bride industry is significant in the Philippines. These marriages are arranged through agencies via websites and catalogues.
Once brides arrive in Canada, they have little mobility and are usually economically dependent on their husbands, and consequently vulnerable to abuse, said Harris.
If abuse does happen, there are few resources available to them and the women are often uninformed of their rights, he said.
The Green Party, which is fielding candidates across the country in the coming election, supports increased research, monitoring and resources, based on the recommendations of non-profit groups such as the Philippines Women's Centre of BC.
Exact figures on the number of Filipina women who have immigrated to Canada as brides or fiancés of Canadian men aren't available. However according to the Philippine government, close to 150,000 Filipina women left the country between 1989 and 1998 as fiancées or spouses of foreigners.
In 2003, people from the Philippines formed the third largest immigration group to Canada, after China and India.
Human rights advocacy groups warn that many of the agencies involved in 'mail-order' brides are effectively involved in human trafficking. Agencies often describe themselves as "introduction services", although their services may include sex tours and prostitution, the Green Party warns.
"It is crucial that the government accept the recommendations from organisations who work closely with these women. We must ensure that women come to Canada only by choice, that they are given protection under the law, and that they have a connection to services, community, and support," said Harris.
"We cannot turn a blind eye to the situation of these women. Canada must be a responsible member of the international community, and tackle all human rights issues at home and abroad."
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Newsfile 