A "silent" giant… Canada. A nation that is a global economic superpower, a member of the G7, but with a much quieter presence on the world stage.
With close trade ties to the US, it bears little resemblance to its neighbor. And the approximately 350,000 Greeks living there know well why this country is considered a top destination for those seeking a better life.
The differences in policies between Canada and the United States are stark. Almost all indicators related to quality of life, low crime rates, social welfare, and labor conditions point to a clear winner: Canada.
Why Canada?
Traditionally, immigrants crossing the Atlantic in search of a better life, initially from Europe, landed in the United States. They helped build this giant, which constantly sought workers to meet its needs. History records many different waves of emigration from the "Old Continent." The most recent images come from Ellis Island, the largest gateway to the US for decades. It is estimated that between 1892 and 1954, nearly 12 million people passed through this immigration inspection station. They arrived at the port of New York and New Jersey for checks, quarantine, and a chance at the "Promised Land."
However, from that point on, the US became much more cautious about immigration. The country's needs had changed, resulting in tighter border controls. It was then that those who continued to seek a better tomorrow turned to other options. Among these, for many Greeks, was Canada, a country that became home to approximately 350,000 Greeks who live there today. And according to them, they are very satisfied with their decision, enjoying a very different life compared to their…noisy neighbors.
Economic Powerhouse
Canada's economy is based on natural resources. This largely frozen and uninhabited land holds the world's third-largest proven oil reserves. But that's not all. It is a leader in uranium production and nuclear power generation. At the same time, the development of its tertiary sector is monumental, in a country with state-of-the-art technology.
As a member of the G7 and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Canada is considered one of the world's largest economies.
Social Welfare State
In contrast to the United States, Canada implements social policies, with a strong state presence. This means that it gives back to its citizens through social welfare programs. Areas like the labor market (although flexible), insurance, and benefits make life easier for citizens. Moreover, the country's GDP and per capita income are among the highest in the world, but this doesn't mean there aren't people in need.
In 2023, Canada ranked 4th among 191 countries in the Human Development Index and 6th in the Business Environment Index. The former relates to quality of life, education, and life expectancy, while the latter pertains to the business world. As you can see, Canada has somehow managed to satisfy two seemingly opposing worlds. Here, both people and the economy thrive.
Closer to the Citizens
A characteristic example of Canada's social policy is the child benefit provided for children under 18. The amounts vary depending on age and income criteria, and the government increases them according to inflation. This year, the Federal government provided support such that a family with an income of CAD 45,000 would receive approximately CAD 7,500 per year for a 6-year-old child.
Turning to the other end of the age spectrum, retirement, it is worth mentioning the pension system. Here, the system is mixed. There is a basic pension received at age 65, calculated in the traditional way, based on contributions and deductions from employment. However, the state also provides something like a National Pension, which one is entitled to even without having worked during their lifetime.
Of course, at the same time, every citizen has the option (and usually does) to subscribe to a private pension plan.
A Package of Well-being
Considering the above, it becomes clear why Canada has become such a popular destination. Low unemployment and minimal crime make it so different from the US, and the Greeks living there know this well.
The Greek diaspora has created vibrant communities in each of the major cities and is thriving, following the rhythm of the country.
Source: menshouse