Ethnocultural diversity

Québec is a pluralist society. The majority of its population is of French descent and coexists with:

• an English minority of British descent,
• Amerindian nations, and
• people of various origins and cultures from other parts of the world.
  
  

Each year, Québec welcomes close to 45,000 immigrants who come from about 100 different countries and participate actively in its economic, social and cultural development. Immigrant population by 10 main countries of birth

The contribution of immigration

The Québec government relies on immigration to help Quebecers meet some of the challenges they have taken on, such as:

• demographic recovery,
• economic prosperity,
• perpetuating the French fact, and
• opening up to the world.

Québec welcomes immigrants with their know-how, skills, language, culture and religion. The Québec government recognizes the enriching contribution of these immigrants and encourages cultural exchanges and closer relations among all the communities.

The integration of immigrants

To fully participate in Québec society, immigrants must adapt to their new environment. They must be prepared to understand and respect the fundamental values of the host society.

In Québec, a number of cultural community organizations have been established in different fields of activity to:

• facilitate the integration of newcomers,
• encourage their participation in public life, and
• enhance their sense of belonging to Québec society.
  
  

Hundreds of organizations are active in areas such as business, social and community development, international relations, culture and recreation, media, scientific research, intercultural relations and religion.

To learn more Immigration statistics (in French)

Useful link

• Québec interculturel