Opinion by Roger-Luc Chayer (Photo : Roger-Luc Chayer – Nice 1984)
Immigration in Difficulty: Perceptions and Realities
Immigration is going through a difficult period in the United States, Europe, Canada, and Quebec. Immigrants are often blamed for many of society’s problems, a phenomenon that is nothing new. Regardless of their origin, migrants, refugees, or new arrivals are regularly the target of criticism from local populations.
Criticism of Immigrants
Immigrants are accused of occupying social housing that should be reserved for locals, massively benefiting from social assistance, government allocations, and welfare that some believe should be directed to local populations. They are also blamed for not integrating into certain cultural habits, such as consuming pork or alcohol, and even for violent behaviors that harm neighborhood and urban community life.
The Overlooked Contribution of Immigrants
However, when it comes to recognizing the positive contributions of immigration, there is often silence. Public hospitals rely on immigrants for maintenance, nursing care, administration, and even among doctors, due to a shortage of local workforce. Agriculture, manufacturing, the health sector, and education also benefit from their presence. Today, it is qualified professionals, skilled workers, and experts who arrive, far from the clichés about low-skilled jobs of the past.
A Specific Issue: Driving and Road Safety
A common observation concerns some immigrants, particularly those from Maghreb countries, whose driving is often considered dangerous. They do not always respect road safety rules and respond poorly to warnings, highlighting a broader problem: a lack of adaptation of rules and controls.
Agreements on Driver’s License Exchange
In Quebec, the government allows license exchanges without exams for certain countries with which it has reciprocity agreements, such as other Canadian provinces, the United States, France, Belgium, and several other European and Asian countries. However, for Maghreb countries (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia), no such agreements exist, requiring holders to pass theoretical and practical exams to obtain a Quebec license.
Limitations of the Current System
However, nationals from these countries can drive with their original foreign license for six months after arrival. Many avoid exams by returning to their home country to renew this period. This behavior poses risks, as driving experience from these countries differs greatly, especially regarding winter driving and adherence to traffic laws.
Proposals to Improve Road Safety
One solution would be for regulatory authorities to impose a probationary license on new arrivals, similar to that for young drivers, with zero tolerance and mandatory training in case of infractions.
Cultural Challenges Regarding Women’s Rights and Sexual Minorities
Contrary to popular belief, it is not always nationals from Arab or Muslim countries who are the most intolerant, but often those from the Middle East, where women’s rights and LGBTQ+ emancipation are little known or rejected. For a Yemeni refugee, it is difficult to accept that a woman can work without a veil or that a same-sex couple can publicly show affection without fear.
Adaptation Challenges for Francophone Europeans
Even Francophone Europeans face adaptation difficulties in North America. Some, especially French or Belgians, quickly involve themselves in community causes and demands, which can seem aggressive to local populations.
The Importance of Supporting New Arrivals
Immigrants arrive with their cultural baggage and often reproduce their original habits. Despite government efforts to provide information and integration guides, changing decades of learning is difficult. Support, patience, and a welcoming attitude are essential to facilitate their social inclusion.
A Personal Immigrant Experience
As for me, having left to study in France in 1983, I spent about ten years there and acquired French nationality, an honor accompanied by responsibilities such as respecting laws and military service. I have always respected French institutions without seeking to impose my own customs, complying with the rules and fully integrating.
Towards Successful Integration
The adaptation of new arrivals varies depending on their country of origin and culture. While some habits are positive, others require patient support. By showing tolerance, respect, and providing appropriate assistance, society as a whole will benefit.
ADVERTISING
