The joint initiative is set to unlock a world of possibilities for Canadian and Icelandic youth by granting them the privilege to explore each other’s countries and cultures through the renowned International Experience Canada program or its Icelandic counterpart.
Canada has taken a significant step in reaffirming its commitment to nurturing the potential of its youth and providing them with international exposure in an increasingly interconnected world.
In a joint announcement, Marie-France Lalonde, parliamentary secretary to the minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, and Áslaug Arna Sigurbjörnsdóttir, minister of higher education, science, and innovation of Iceland, unveiled the signing of a Youth Mobility Arrangement between Canada and Iceland. This arrangement, set to come into effect in 2024 pending fulfillment of all requirements, holds the promise of transforming the landscape for Canadian youth seeking opportunities to work and travel abroad.
The Youth Mobility Arrangement between Canada and Iceland is poised to unlock a world of possibilities for Canadian and Icelandic youth, ranging from the ages of 18 to 30. Under this agreement, participants will be granted the privilege to explore each other’s countries and cultures through the renowned International Experience Canada (IEC) program or its Icelandic counterpart for an extended period of up to 12 months, with the potential for a repeat experience for an additional year.
This opportunity represents far more than just a chance to travel and work; it signifies a pathway to personal growth, cultural immersion, and enhanced career prospects.
At its core, this arrangement aims to foster stronger bilateral ties between Canada and Iceland, rooted in shared values and the creation of meaningful people-to-people connections.
Canadian youth will gain insights into the rich Icelandic culture, while Icelandic youth will have the opportunity to explore the vast landscapes and opportunities in Canada. The arrangement exemplifies the collaborative spirit of nations striving to build a more interconnected global community.
Lalonde highlighted the significance of this initiative in supporting the aspirations and potential of young individuals. The arrangement not only opens doors for Canadian youth but also creates lasting connections and friendships that will enrich their lives for years to come, the official said.
Sigurbjörnsdóttir echoed the same sentiments, expressing her delight in the signing of the youth mobility arrangement with Canada.
“With this exciting arrangement in place, we are creating a path for them to connect, learn, and grow together, fostering friendships and memories that will last a lifetime,” Sigurbjörnsdóttir said, stressing the opportunities it presents for Icelandic and Canadian youth.
“Through this arrangement, Icelandic and Canadian youth will have the opportunity to work and travel in each other’s country, exploring new cultures while enhancing their life skills and improving career prospects.”
Furthermore, the signing of this agreement carries historical and demographic significance. Canada is home to the largest population of Icelandic immigrants and their descendants outside of Iceland, with over 101,990 individuals of Icelandic origin as per the 2021 Census. This arrangement deepens the cultural ties between these two nations, allowing the descendants of Icelandic immigrants in Canada to reconnect with their ancestral homeland.
The IEC program, on which this arrangement is built, has a track record of success as a reciprocal initiative that enables Canadian and international youth to work and travel in each other’s countries. This new development expands the program’s horizons and underscores the commitment of both Canada and Iceland to invest in their youth, recognizing them as valuable assets and global ambassadors.
The Youth Mobility Arrangement between Canada and Iceland represents a significant milestone in the pursuit of global interconnectedness and youth empowerment. It offers Canadian and Icelandic youth the chance to broaden their horizons, create lifelong memories, and strengthen the ties between their nations.
