On May 13, 2025, Lena Metlege Diab was appointed as Canada’s new Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, succeeding Rachel Bendayan in Prime Minister Mark Carney’s cabinet. This appointment marks a significant milestone in Diab’s distinguished political career, bringing her extensive experience in immigration policy to the federal stage
A Trailblazer in Nova Scotia Politics
Born in Halifax in 1965 to Lebanese immigrant parents, Diab spent part of her early childhood in Lebanon before returning to Canada at age 11 to escape the civil war. Despite initial language barriers, she pursued higher education with determination, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Political Science from Saint Mary’s University, followed by a Master of Public Administration and a Bachelor of Laws from Dalhousie University. Before entering politics, Diab practiced law and operated a small business in Halifax.
In 2013, Diab was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Halifax Armdale, becoming the first woman of Lebanese descent elected to a legislature in Canada. She made history again as Nova Scotia’s first female Attorney General and Minister of Justice. During her tenure, she also served as Minister of Immigration, Acadian Affairs and Francophonie, and Labour and Advanced Education, where she was instrumental in developing Nova Scotia’s immigration programs and promoting diversity and inclusion.
Transition to Federal Politics
In 2021, Diab transitioned to federal politics, winning the seat for Halifax West and becoming the riding’s first female Member of Parliament. Her federal career has been marked by active participation in parliamentary committees and interparliamentary groups, reflecting her commitment to justice, human rights, and international collaboration.
Vision for Immigration
As the new Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Diab brings a wealth of experience and a personal understanding of the immigrant journey. Her previous work in Nova Scotia saw the introduction of innovative immigration streams and a focus on attracting newcomers to support economic growth. Observers anticipate that she will continue to prioritize policies that balance economic needs with humanitarian commitments, streamline immigration processes, and enhance support for newcomers across Canada. Diab’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to leverage her expertise in immigration and her dedication to fostering inclusive communities. Her leadership is expected to play a crucial role in shaping Canada’s immigration policies in the coming years.
