Theoretical analysis of the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program and the Francophone Immigration Strategy as policy interventions to attract highly skilled immigrants to Manitoba

Abstract

In the era of globalization, Canada is one of many industrialized countries involved in the worldwide race for talent (McHale 2003). Thus, Canada plans to accept 401,000 immigrants by 2021 by giving preference to economic immigrants to strengthen the country’s middle class (IRCC, 2020e). Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia are the top intended destinations of newcomers (Statistics Canada 2010; IRCC 2015; IRCC 2018). Consequently, smaller provinces do not fully benefit from immigration. Equal distribution of immigrants among provinces and territories is a key issue in Canada. Since immigration is a shared responsibility, there are policies designed to address it in both federal and provincial levels. This research is focused on two such programs: the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) and the Francophone Immigration Strategy. The MPNP is based on federal-provincial agreements to meet Manitoba-specific labour-market needs. The second initiative is designed to enhance vitality of French-speaking minority communities outside Quebec through immigration (IRCC 2019). By focusing on the province of Manitoba, this study uses new institutionalism and nudge theory to examine both programs that aim to attract highly skilled immigrants to the province. The research methodology is mainly qualitative as it applies a case study approach and uses thematic analysis of government documents related to both immigration programs. Through this analysis we can learn how the theories help us understand Manitoba’s immigration programs and make useful policy recommendations. This combination of innovation and learning can be a powerful tool for developing effective policies to build a better future for Canadian- and foreign-born peoples.