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The Canadian immigration detention system : a discourse analysis of the paradox between humanitarianism and securitization in parliamentary debates Fitzgerald, Marisa

Abstract

Canada projects the image of an immigrant-welcoming nation, with a longstanding humanitarian tradition. However, in contrast to this depiction, Canada’s immigration detention system has been condemned as not only deeply punitive but also as contributing to a narrative of securitization. These dynamics produce two competing discourses: (1) humanitarianism, highlighting compassion and assistance and (2) securitization, emphasizing surveillance, control and exclusion. This thesis examines the following central question: How does humanitarian and securitization discourse manifest among political elites in debates on detention legislation? To answer this question, I conduct a qualitative discourse analysis of the parliamentary debates of three bills: (1) Bill C-11 (the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, IRPA), the main piece of legislation guiding Canadian immigration detention; (2) Bill C-4, a failed amendment to the IRPA (i.e., did not pass into law); and finally, (3) Bill C-31, a successful amendment. Using qualitative data analysis software, I employ inductive and deductive coding strategies to identify patterns of language relating to both humanitarianism and securitization. The analysis reveals that narratives of humanitarianism and securitization not only coexist within political rhetoric but are often and intentionally used in tandem. What’s more, there are clear partisan divisions in how these discourses are employed, and they are used to strategically and successfully advance party agendas, particularly security-driven agendas. The findings suggest that although Canada may appear to be extending humanitarian assistance, the nation is no exception to the growing discourse of securitization—like other detention systems, Canada’s should be kept under a watchful eye.

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Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International