Canada is one of the best countries in the world to live, work, study, and play. Immigrants were the bread and butter of Canadian society since its birth and today we thrive on welcoming new comers to help make this country the best in the world. As a leading country in all sectors, Canada also has world-renowned post-secondary institutions, a thriving economy both nationally and regionally, and countless resources that help newcomers.
Canada is among the most diverse countries in the world. Between 1996-2005, Canada welcomed an average of 223 283 permanent residents. In addition, Canada has a strong human rights record; Canada has accepted over 275 000 refugees between 1996-2005. (Source http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/pub/facts2005/overview/01.html)
Canada is the 2nd largest country in the world. It is surrounded by three oceans - the Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, and Arctic Ocean.
Canada's recognized national sport is hockey. There are five professional Canadian Teams (Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and the Montreal Canadiens).
The current Prime Minister of Canada is Stephen Harper.
The current Governor General of Canada is Michaelle Jean.
The newest territory is called Nunavut, which came into existence on April 1, 1999.
Total land area: 9,093, 507 sq km; Total Coastline: 202,080 km; border length with the US: 8,893 km.
Demographics (July 2006 est.): Total Population: 33, 390, 141; Median Age: 39.1 years; Life Expectancy: Male (77.0 years) Female (83.9)
In 1969, Canada adopted the Official Languages Act that formally recognized two distinct official languages (English and French). This policy was not officially implement until 1988.
As a preface to the Charter of Rights and Freedom of 1982, in 1971 the Canadian Government was the first country in the world to adopt an inclusive and pluralist policy called the Multicultural Act. This legislation recognized the fundamental importance of understanding, inclusivness, tolerance, and mutual intergration of its diverse peoples. Canada is the leader in formally recognizing all cultures as a part and fundamental to its own identity and growth.
In 1982, under the Pierre Trudeau government, the Canada Act was signed, which included amendments to the BNA Act and the incorporation of Canada's Charter of Rights and Freedom (CRF). The CRF has played an integral role in establishing rights for all citizens. Canada has distinguished itself as being a leader in the protection of human rights based on race, ethicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender, and culture.
Canada has a bi-cameral system of government. This means that there are two houses, the House of Commons and the Senate. The House of Commons is comprised of elected officials that debate and pass legislation. The Senate is comprised of officials appointed by the Governor General in consultation with the Prime Minister.
There are currently five major political parties in Canada. They are the following: Liberals, Conservatives, New Democrats, Bloc, and the Green Party.