Debate heats up over Alberta's immigration policy future

Peter Copeland, acting director of domestic policy at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, argues against increasing immigration to Alberta. He contends that immigration often addresses labour shortages and demographic challenges with a short-term focus, neglecting the deeper social fabric. Copeland asserts that stronger families, higher fertility rates, and deeper social trust are more crucial than relying on mass immigration to sustain GDP or prop up failing business models.

Copeland claims immigration has masked economic stagnation, demographic decline, and social fragmentation. He points to declining social trust, belonging, and civic engagement as evidence that rapid population growth and cultural fragmentation weaken societal bonds. Surveys show Canadians' trust in others dropped from 54% to the mid-40s, and only 47% felt a strong sense of belonging in 2022. Volunteering and charitable giving also declined significantly.

Avnish Nanda responds by arguing that Copeland's premises are flawed. Nanda attributes the decline in social trust and belonging to the COVID-19 pandemic, not immigration. He highlights that immigrants were essential workers during the pandemic, keeping the economy functioning. More recent data from 2025 shows 78% of Canadians reported pride in their nationality, with immigrants showing even higher levels of pride.

Nanda emphasizes the success of Canada's civic nationalism, which integrates migrants based on shared values rather than immutable characteristics like race or birthplace. He warns that Alberta's push for less immigration threatens economic and social stability, aligning with far-right populist movements that seek to redefine Canadian identity.