March 23, 2020
Ten COVID-19 Reasons for Optimism Inside and Outside the World of Canadian Immigration
It is difficult these days to find much reason for optimism as the COVID-19 virus rages into its fourth month, and Canada is facing increasing numbers of those afflicted. It is important to note that my comments below are not meant to minimize the seriousness of what is unfolding, and the pain and suffering many individuals are going through. My observations in no way suggest that we not maintain the current protocol being advanced by public health officials in an attempt to stem the spread. However, as highlighted in my past blog COVID-19 is not the 1918 Spanish Flu that ravaged the world for twenty-three months. There are reasons for optimism both inside and outside the world of Canadian immigration. Here are my ten in no particular order.
1. First, the front-line health care responders, border officials and many others continue to carry provide essential services for all of our collective sustenance, health and safety. They are to be acknowledged and commended.
2. We cannot underestimate the power of modern medical technology and the ongoing international collaboration between many countries, including Canada. In under four months, vaccines are already at clinical trial stages, evidencing the speed at which the medical community has mobilized.
3. Given the billions of dollars at stake, the world is undoubtedly marshalling its resources to find a solution.
4. Countries have imposed strong measures to flatten the curve, and the results will soon bear out even though it does not feel like it right now – China for one is showing signs of the benefits of restricted travel, quarantining and social distancing
5. We will learn much about superbugs, best practices to protect ourselves, hygiene and safety generally to the benefit of the reduction of disease spread in the future. Lessons this powerful will not be easily forgotten. Will any of us forget how to wash our hands properly after this experience?
6. Although specific social ills can be attributed to social media, the power to share information generally on a global scale is unprecedented and provides a strong weapon against COVID-19.
7. Aside from the COVID-19 medical implications mentioned above, it has forced, in many facets of our world, a pause to rethink how to deliver vital services and to conduct business generally—everything from health services, public gatherings, sport, travel, in-person meetings and in-person office structures to list. Still, a few will be viewed through a different lens and hopefully to the benefit of people and the environment worldwide.
8. Thankfully after a regroup and especially if future mitigation periods are required, technology not previously available will allow us to continue to operate.
9. In the world of immigration, many agencies are transitioning to modernization, and this is bearing excellent results during this time. With additional tweaks – more virtual interviews as one example – new ways of delivering services and preserving the integrity of our systems will adapt, advance and perhaps be better than ever before
10. Courts and tribunals will follow suit and make the necessary adjustments to get on with the critical work they must discharge every day – again virtual hearings may be required. Even during all this, work continues and will ramp up in the coming months.
So, there it is, significant glimmers of optimism that I hope soon translates into reality. Until then, to all our clients and followers, we wish you strength during this challenging time and encourage you to reach out to us with any immigration matters you are managing.
Thank you for reading.