As we gather at the 26th Metropolis Canada Conference in Montreal, Quebec, migration remains a pressing issue on the global stage. War, violence, human rights abuses, climate change, and unstable economies continue to displace large numbers of people worldwide.

Amid these challenges, Canada stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for migrants seeking a new home. The country's commitment to welcoming newcomers is reflected in its increasing immigration numbers, which not only serve domestic economic and demographic objectives but also respond to humanitarian crises, embodying the spirit of international cooperation.

However, with higher immigration levels comes the responsibility of establishing the necessary structures and allocating resources to ensure effective newcomer integration and settlement. Collaboration between policymakers, settlement service providers, and researchers is paramount in shaping migration planning and processes for success. Identifying and addressing gaps in the immigration ecosystem should be a shared goal, emphasizing modernization to enhance settlement outcomes.

Are resources being effectively allocated to ensure successful newcomer integration and settlement. What are the challenges in achieving effective collaboration and coordination among policymakers, settlement service providers, and researchers in the context of migration planning? How can the voices and perspectives of newcomers be properly included in decision-making processes, especially when dealing with diverse migrant categories? How do Canada's immigration policies and practices align with or impact global efforts to address migration, refugees, and human rights on a broader scale?