BCCIE Summer Seminar 2016

The ascendency of globalization at the end of the Cold War led to an erosion of nation state borders and the pronounced movement of temporary workers, students, immigrants, migrants and refugees across borders in search of economic advancement, education, work, safety, security and health. Recent years have seen this turn into an exodus as the waves of humanity crossing borders have grown to a ground swell. Economic migrants primarily from the Near East and Africa, as well as refugees from war-torn regions of the Middle East flee on perilous journeys to reach Europe and onward.

In 2015 alone, Europe received more than 1 million refugees, forcing national redefinitions and refinements of social policy, responsibility and identity. The education sector across Europe has been key in articulating and implementing its roles. The incoming Canadian government has also made good on its early commitment to receive 25,000 Syrian refugees and is now pondering an increase of an additional 8500 before the end of 2016. Substantial numbers are being settled in British Columbia. Sectors and governments have had to make difficult choices and face difficult truths. Our panel of experts will explore key issues and responses to the crisis within the context of Europe, Canada and British Columbia.

Sponsored by: Paragon Testing Enterprises