that private Canadian sponsorships of persons from this area have increased, and
that Canada provides opportunities for admission through special measures for
Salvadorans and Guatemalans. In addition, the Designated Class for Political
Prisoners and Oppressed Persons provides help for persons from South America who
are in need of resettlement, although their numbers are relatively small
compared with those from Central America.
Africa
Governments on this continent are responding to the world'
numerically largest refugee situation by providing temporary asylum pending
repatriation. For a limited number, however, third-country resettlement required, particularly for those needing early protection. Canada's acceptance of refugees from Africa, through both government assistance and private sponsorship, has been growing as a result of greater awareness and an increased
ability to identify those in need. Muintaining Canada's commitment to this area
could, in concert with intense concern over famine relief, stimulate more
private sponsorships.
The Middle East
Canada's response to the strife in this area •
combines regular
resettlement opportunities and special ceasures for Lebanese and Iranians. The
increase in the allocation for this area reflects the ongoing need to provide
opportunities for Iranians with family ties to Canada. The additional places
take into account the situation of professional women from Iran, reflecting the
fact that not only minority groups in that country are now being persecuted.
Other world areas
Although the regional allocations described above include a degree of flexibility, there is a need to ensure that Canada is able to continue to be of
help if sudden and unforeseen circumstances arise. The moderate increase in funded places provided under this allocation can thus be used to provide extra
regional capacity as required.