Canada Sees Largest Population Decline Since 1946

Critics of Canada’s immigration policies, including a national political party that has made this issue the centrepiece of its voter appeal, may celebrate recent news: Immigration to Canada is decreasing for the first time in years.

New census data released by Statistics Canada indicates that the nation’s population now stands at just under 41.6 million, having declined by about 76,000 people, or 0.18%, in the last quarter. This follows nearly a year of minimal population growth and marks the first quarterly decline since the end of 2020, when border restrictions were imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The decline is primarily attributed to fewer arrivals of non-permanent residents, including individuals on temporary work and study permits. While the drop is small, it represents the most significant quarterly population decline since 1946.

But what some right-wing groups view as a vindication of their criticism of Canada’s immigration policies may raise concerns for policymakers and economists. They recognize that immigration is not the problem; instead, it’s the lack of infrastructure and resources necessary to support and employ the increasing number of newcomers that creates challenges.

Research over the past 45 years has consistently pointed to one solution to Canada’s challenges: immigration is essential to address an ageing population and a declining birth rate, both of which are linked to a shrinking workforce. Experts agree that this imbalance cannot be corrected solely through natural population growth. Immigration is vital for maintaining economic momentum and supporting social programs that benefit all Canadians, especially the growing senior population.

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