Iranian conscripts call for immigration exemption after mandatory service

Iranian immigrants, specifically former conscripts of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), are seeking an exemption from Canada's immigration policies, according to the International Centre for Human Rights and community members. These individuals argue that they are being unjustly branded as inadmissible simply for their mandatory service in what Canada considers a terrorist organization.

At a press conference on Parliament Hill, former IRGC conscripts shared their frustration at being punished for a service they did not choose. They emphasized that while they support the designation of the IRGC as a terrorist entity, their immigration status now hangs in the balance.

Alberta Conservative MP Garnett Genuis proposed a solution in 2023, introducing legislation that would have granted an immigration exemption to IRGC conscripts. The International Centre for Human Rights has reached out to parliamentary secretaries for public safety and immigration, expressing hope that their concerns will be addressed. Iranian-Canadian activists also rallied on Parliament Hill to raise awareness of the issue and urge the Canadian government to take action.