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This talk will explain the constitutional challenge to Canada's human smuggling laws that was argued before the Supreme Court of Canada in February 2015. The case asks whether Canada's criminalisation of human smuggling is unconstitutional because it can penalise individuals and groups who assist refugees in seeking international protection in Canada. Catherine Dauvergne provided expert evidence at the trial level in this case, and has watched it closely as a member of the Canada Council for Refugees Legal Affairs Committee.

About the speaker

Professor Catherine Dauvergne works in the area of immigration and refugee law in Canada and around the world. Her research is grounded in a belief that how we define and police the boundaries of our societies determines the terrain of our political engagments and says much about our national identity. Border laws are a space of unabashed discrimination, where aspirations of nationhood are writ large. Professor Dauvergne is currently completing a research project investigating the failure of Canada's Charter of Rights and Freedoms to protect non-citizens.

Annual Harrell-Bond Lecture

The Annual Harrell-Bond Lecture is named in honour of Dr Barbara Harrell-Bond, the founding Director of the Refugee Studies Centre. It is held each year in Michaelmas term.

Annual Elizabeth Colson Lecture

The Annual Elizabeth Colson Lecture is held in Trinity term. It is named after Professor Elizabeth Colson, a renowned anthropologist.

Public Seminar Series

Each term the RSC holds a series of public seminars, held on Wednesday evenings at Queen Elizabeth House. Click here for details of forthcoming seminars.

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Forthcoming events

A celebration of the life of David Turton

Saturday, 20 July 2024, 2pm to 3pm @ The Crypt Cafe, St Peters Church, Northchurch Terrace, London N1 4DA