Thirty Years of Immigration and Growth in Atlantic Canada

Population growth in Atlantic Canada has changed considerably over the past thirty years. In 1994, natural increase was the main factor in population growth while immigration played a modest role; as of 2023, immigration plays a much bigger role while natural growth is the main cause of population decline. This shift is contributing to a population that is increasingly diverse and born outside the Atlantic region. Programs and services that focus on integration are crucial to building bridges between newcomers, longer-term residents, and established ethno-cultural communities. The regional coordination of service providers and other interest holders can help build a robust and resilient sector that responds to the changing needs of newcomers.