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Canadian youth are looking for an international experience. Working abroad allows young people to live overseas where they can be immersed in a new culture and gain a different perspective on life. The life skills learned from their time away from home can also help their job search upon their return to Canada. Canadian employers are seeking job candidates with confidence and flexibility, who are ready to take on new challenges and are respectful of cultural diversity. Many of these skills can be gained from living and working abroad in another culture. Source: The Go Abroad Fair

The PLEAvol. 26 no. �

Don’t Let Your Travel

Plans Go South

PassportsBiometrics

The Law of the LandForeign Affairs

Activities & Case Studies

Free Class Sets View online

Youth travel suddenly seems to be in the spotlight nowadays. Trade fairs, destinations and mainstream tour operators are interested in youth travel. They are beginning to understand the importance of one of the most significant segments in the travel industry. Source: Youth Travel Magazine, Jan. 2003

The reasons for travel are varied – education, tourism, employment, and even volunteering. Maybe you have the chance to get away on a family holiday this winter or are travelling with a school group in the spring. Perhaps you are interested in the possibility of post-secondary education in another country or humanitarian work abroad. In this issue of The PLEA we’ll look at some things that all travellers should be aware of and highlight issues that may be of particular interest to younger travellers.

What’s Inside?

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PassportsA Canadian passport is essentially a travel document that proves you are a Canadian citizen. It is intended to facilitate travel between countries by proving your identity and nationality. While there was a time when children could travel on their parent’s passport, all children who travel abroad must now have their own passport. Requiring children to have a valid travel document that includes a photo and other identifying information is designed to protect children against being removed from the country illegally or for an illegitimate purpose.

All Canadian citizens may apply for a Canadian passport. Individuals that are charged with an indictable offence, are imprisoned or are subject to parole/probation orders that prohibit them from leaving Canada may be refused a passport.

If you are under the age of 16 one of your parents can apply for a passport on your behalf. If your parents are separated or divorced and applying for your passport, the parent who has custody must make the application. Passports will not be issued if there is a court order providing the other parent with specific access rights, unless there is proof that issuing a passport wouldn’t be contrary to the order. All children who are travelling without one or both parents should have a letter of consent, signed by a Notary Public, indicating that the parents give their permission for the child to take a particular trip. A sample consent letter can be viewed at www.voyage.gc.ca/main/before/consent_letter-en.asp. Children without such a letter may be denied entry to a foreign country or be refused by some transportation companies.

Fees for passports vary depending on the age the person – $22 for children under 3, $37 for children aged 3-15, and $87 for individuals 16 and over. Applications are usually processed in 10 - 20 working days.

For an interesting history of the Canadian passport visit Passport Canada at www.ppt.gc.ca/about/history.aspx?lang.e It is a criminal offence to forge a passport or make a false or misleading statement in order to obtain a passport.

Do I really look this bad? Passport Photo Regulations

There are many rules that apply regarding your appearance when a passport photo is taken. Usually, the results do not make you look as attractive as other photographs. However, for security and identification reasons, passport photos are meant to give the most accurate reflection of your physical appearance.

Take the role of a passport office official, and accept or reject each of the following passport photos being brought to your office. If you wish to review the rules of passport photos beforehand, the government of Canada’s Passport general regulations and instructions are available online at www.ppt.gc.ca/forms/index.aspx?lang=e

Activity

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1. Jane is smiling. ACCEPT REJECT

2. Fred is wearing prescription sunglasses. ACCEPT REJECT

3. Tim is wearing tinted prescription glasses. ACCEPT REJECT

4. Jenna’s passport photo has a multi-coloured blue background. ACCEPT REJECT

5. Nicole, a one-year-old infant, has a smiling expression. ACCEPT REJECT

6. Matthew has on the wig he normally wears. ACCEPT REJECT

7. Barry is wearing a Maple Leafs cap. ACCEPT REJECT

8. Shirwin is wearing a turban for religious purposes. ACCEPT REJECT

9. Raj is wearing a veil that covers all her face except the eyes. ACCEPT REJECT

10. Joel’s picture was photographed by his Aunt Velma. ACCEPT REJECT

11. Erin’s photo is in colour. ACCEPT REJECT

12. There is a shadow on one side of Ian’s photo. ACCEPT REJECT

The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)

Until recently Canadians did not require a passport to enter the United States. However, in an attempt to strengthen border security, the United States has now introduced an initiative that will require all travellers entering or re-entering the U.S. to present a passport or other approved, secure travel document. After January 7, 2007 all individuals travelling to the U.S. by air will need a passport or other approved, secure travel document. The initiative also includes plans to eventually require such documentation for all travellers, regardless of their mode of transportation.

The WHTI has met with much criticism. There are fears that the initiative will severely limit cross-border trade and devastate border communities. Recently, the U.S. government agreed to consider postponing full implementation of the WHTI in order to address some of these concerns. Negotiations regarding the WHTI will be tricky, however, as parties attempt to balance social and economic factors with concerns over national security.

Answers Online at www.plea.org/yas

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Biometrics involves technology that uses unique characteristics of an individual to verify their identity. The system analyzes unique personal characteristics and compares them against existing passports or other travel documents and police lists. Biometric technology includes things like fingerprints, facial recognition and eye scans. It works by scanning unique characteristics of an individual and converting it into a computer code. ID cards can then include the code by embedding the cards with microchips that can be matched to the individual by a quick and painless scan of the relevant body part.

Passport Canada supports the use of biometrics, stating…

In recent years, biometrics have become more popular as terrorism and criminal activities around the world have accentuated the need to protect travellers against criminal and illegal usage of their personal identity. Biometrics provide the potential for improved security and allow for stronger access control and strengthened document integrity. Biometrics also facilitate border crossings for frequent travellers while improving the integrity of the identification process.

In the fall of 2004, a trial project involving biometrics was launched at Vancouver International Airport. Coined “Nexus Air”, the project was designed to simplify and speed-up travel

between Canada and the U.S. for pre-approved, low-risk travellers. The project uses an eye scan to verify membership in the program – a digital camera captures an image of your eye and recognizes it as matching your identity. Under the WHTI, the Nexus Air card can be used in place of a passport for entry into the U.S.

Travel and the Role of Biometrics

DEBATE - BIOMETRICSWhile biometrics may enhance security, the technology has the potential of intruding on an individual’s privacy depending on how and why it is used. Even agencies and officials from the government of Canada have differing viewpoints on the role of Biometrics…

INTRUSION OF PRIVACY In 2002 Canada’s privacy commissioner stated that “by making it easier for police forces and security agencies to collect, store, analyze, cross-reference and share personal information, technology has the effect of increasing the power of the state to intrude on the privacy of its citizens”.

ENHANCEMENT OF PRIVACYPassport Canada states that “while biometrics can improve security, it also has the potential to enhance privacy. One of the greatest threats to individual privacy is to have one’s identity documents stolen and used by someone else; biometrics are one way to assist in combating this type of crime”.

YOU DECIDEWhat are the benefits and drawbacks of having your biometric information archived by the government? Create two columns. In the first column, list what you believe are the benefits to using biometric data. In the second column, brainstorm a list of the drawbacks to using biometric data. Review your lists and conclude if the benefits outweigh the risks. Justify your answer based on your reasoning.

- or -

Activity

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Laws give us a general set of rules to operate under in on our day-to-day lives, our personal relationships and our business dealings. All nations have some system of laws that attempt to balance the needs of individual members of society with the needs of the community as a whole. A country’s laws are an integral part of the culture and values of a society and vary from one country to the next. Some countries laws reflect the prevailing moral and religious beliefs more so than countries that believe in the separation of church and state. Some broad-based rules, such as rules against taking someone’s life or property, seem to be universal. But travellers must understand that there are countless laws that will vary from what they are accustomed to at home and that it is their responsibility to be aware of behaviours that are both illegal and dangerous in a foreign country.

Students who are travelling have an excellent opportunity to examine the values that are reflected in a country’s laws and gain a deeper appreciation of the different cultures they may encounter. It is interesting to note the types of behaviours that are criminalized and possible defences to those crimes, as well as the punishments that are imposed. When a country’s laws are very different than ours it may be particularly interesting to examine the values that underlie them.

The Law of the Land

The A-Maze-ing Race

Instructions: Try to take a trip across the world without landing yourself in trouble. Avoid the flags because each one corresponds to a law from that country you don’t want to break.

Estonia.................... there is zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol; possession of even a small amount of drugs can lead to imprisonment.

Aruba...................... individuals over 14 years of age must be able to show proper identification to law enforcement at all times if requested; failing to do so can result in a fine.

United Kingdom..... penalties for drunk driving are severe and often result in prison sentences. United States............ the zero-tolerance policy imposes severe penalties for even a small amount of

an illegal drug.

France...................... under French law you are required to carry your passport at all times.

Italy.......................... it is illegal to buy counterfeit merchandise (such as sunglasses, purses, watches). In some regions certain conduct, such as sitting, eating or drinking in courtyards or near churches and government buildings may be prohibited – travellers should look for and obey posted notices.

Jamaica................... it is illegal to wear, buy or sell army or police camouflage clothing; inappropriate conduct or indecent language can lead to arrest.

Mexico..................... it is illegal to be drunk in public; possession of archeological artifacts from ruins and such can result in imprisonment.

Cameroon ............... like many countries, it is illegal to photograph military installations or government buildings.

Start

Finish

Answers Online at www.plea.org/yas

Activity

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The consular services of Foreign Affairs Canada can provide information and assistance to Canadians travelling or living abroad. Lots of this information is invaluable in the planning stages of any trip. Below is an overview of the types of information provided.

• Travel Updates provide Canadians with information about current issues affecting travel to certain parts of the world, such as the Avian Flu in Asia and parts of Eastern Europe, security issues in the Middle East, and rioting throughout France. Information is also available about upcoming elections, demonstrations, natural hazards and disasters, special events, such as the Olympic Games, and changes to required travel documentation.

• Travel Reports provide background information for specific destinations and cover topics such as travel advisories and warnings, safety and security, natural disasters and climate, local laws and customs, currency and banking, health, and consular services and assistance.

• Country Profiles provide information about the people, their languages and culture, natural resources, maps and statistics, as well as the economic and political climate.

• Legal and Judicial System overviews provide information about local customs and laws and what to do if you are arrested or imprisoned in a foreign country. This information also helps to highlight the fact that laws in other countries can be very different than those in Canada and your rights may be very limited. As not knowing about the law is no excuse, travellers must inform themselves.

In addition to this information, Foreign Affairs Canada has numerous suggestions to help ensure that your trip is safe and enjoyable. Before you leave, it is always a good idea to find out where the nearest Canadian

government office is located. Consular officials can provide assistance in the event of an emergency or evacuation, arrange for medical assistance or help travellers deal with other issues that come up while they are abroad. While consular officials do not provide legal advice, they can provide you with a list of local lawyers and try to ensure that you are treated fairly if you get into any trouble with the law.

Take some time to learn a little bit about the country you are travelling to, the culture, and the political and economic situation. A few key phrases of the local language can be very useful. Make sure to leave a copy of your travel plans and contact information with family or friends. This can be very helpful if anyone needs to get a hold of you in the case of an emergency. Make sure that your passport is in order – it is the only document that is accepted in all countries as proof of your citizenship and

identity. Find out in advance if any special medical precautions are recommended. You may also want to look into extra health or travel insurance.

If you plan on being away for more than three months, or are travelling to a country that might experience problems during your

visit, you can register with a Canadian government office nearest your destination. This service is provided to help ensure that Canadians can be contacted during a natural disaster or political crisis and receive advice about how best to deal with the situation. Registration also allows travellers to be contacted in the event of an emergency at home. Registration is voluntary and information is treated as private and confidential.

For more information about travelling abroad and contact information for consular services around the world, contact Foreign Affairs Canada or visit them online at www.voyage.gc.ca.

In the Know - Foreign Affairs Canada

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I’m going abroad… what do I need to know?

The safest way to travel is to be informed and prepared. The Foreign Affairs Canada website (www.voyage.gc.ca) provides valuable information that all travellers should make themselves aware of before leaving the country.

Using Foreign Affairs Canada’s website as your starting point, pick a country that you would like to visit and create a traveller’s profile. Your profile should include:

Country Facts1. A map of the country (including major cities, landmarks, and geographical features).2. Languages spoken.3. Climate information and potential natural disasters.

Laws and Customs1. Key phrases or expressions commonly used in the country.2. Behavioural expectations of their culture.3. Laws of interest and/or importance to travellers.

Important Information1. Current issues in the country that visitors should be made aware of.2. Assistance for Canadians abroad.3. Availability of health care.4. Requirements for entry into or exit from the country.

I was just having a little fun…Travelling can be a thrilling and exciting adventure. Unfortunately, sometimes the excitement and enthusiasm of one traveller can lessen the enjoyment of other travellers. When you are flying somewhere the flight crew is responsible for making your trip a safe one. Attendants will not tolerate any behaviour that is disruptive or dangerous. Transport Canada lists the following examples of unacceptable behaviours…

▪ refusing to follow crew instructions▪ disregarding smoking regulations▪ verbal abuse▪ drunk or disorderly conduct▪ harassment▪ assault▪ intimidating behaviour▪ endangering the safety of the aircraft

If you consider yourself a bit of a comic, you should know that nothing will make your joke bomb quicker than an off-hand remark about explosives or weapons of any kind. Uttering anything about bombs or weapons can lead to your arrest and criminal charges against you. Your flight could be delayed or you could be denied boarding privileges altogether. Think it couldn’t happen to you? A quick internet search will provide you with many, many examples of situations involving people of all ages and walks of life who discovered just how seriously this type of thing is treated.

In the Know - Foreign Affairs Canada

AIR TRAVELBy law you must obey all instructions from the crew. Individuals not doing so can be restrained, arrested, charged and prosecuted.

Activity

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Rule of Law and Air Rage

Rule of law means that no individual is above the law. In Canada, laws apply equally to all people in society. This includes members of the government.

In 2002, John McCallum, then Canada’s Minister of Defence, was barred entry onto an Air Canada flight from Toronto to Ottawa. The reason was that he had consumed too much alcohol before the flight. Despite his role in Canada’s government, McCallum did not receive special consideration by Air Canada’s staff. The rule of law applied. McCallum was very cooperative with Air Canada and as a result of this incident he gave up drinking.

Air Rage – A Case StudyFind examples of people who have been either refused entry onto an airplane, or have been removed from an aircraft due to their misbehaviour. Your incidents can include celebrities, politicians, or average people. Guiding questions should include…

1. What wrongful action was this person doing? 2. What actions did the airline take? 3. Did the person removed from the plane have a

different version of the events than the airline staff?4. Were any criminal charges pressed as a result?5. Consider both sides of this incident. Would you have

handled this situation differently? If so, how?

Returning HomeBefore you even leave on any trip you should know a few things about your return that will make for a good ending to your travels. First of all, there are restrictions and limits on what you can bring into Canada. Many items that are

sold to travellers as souvenirs cannot be brought into Canada, particularly items such as ivory bracelets, tortoise shells or crocodile skins that come from endangered species. Plant and animal products that could potentially harm agriculture or forestry industries or human health and safety may be refused. Prohibited items will be taken away from you and you could be fined or charged with an offence.

If you bring goods into Canada that are valued over a certain amount of money you will need to pay tax on the amount that is over the limit for “duty-free” status. Until the duty tax is paid, you will not be allowed to take the items with you. Within this limit the amount of alcohol and tobacco products is also limited. Most importantly,

even if alcohol and tobacco products were available to young people while abroad, these products are subject to provincial age restrictions upon your return.

Some countries require you to pay a departure tax before leaving – you should make sure that you set aside enough money in local currency to cover this somewhat unexpected expense.

A single imported sausage brought foot-and-mouth disease into Canada, meaning that thousands of cattle had to be destroyed and costing Canadians more than one billion dollars. Animal and plant products may bring pest and diseases into Canada that threaten human health as well as our forests, crops, livestock and our multi-billion dollar export business that Canada’s economy depends on. It really is a big deal and it is in the best interests of all Canadians that we obey the laws. SOURCE: Travel FAQs, www.acjnet.org

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Activity

A-Maze-ing Race Solution

Passports Activity - Answer Key1. REJECT.Passportphotosmustcontainneutralexpressions

2. REJECT.Theeyesarenotvisiblebehindsunglasses.

3. ACCEPT.Allprescriptionglassesareacceptableinpassportphotos,providedtheeyesareclearlyvisible.

4. REJECT.Thebackgroundmustbeplainwhiteorlight-colouredbackground.

5. ACCEPT.Neutralexpressionrulesdonotapplytobabies.

6. ACCEPT.Aslongasthehairpieceisnormallywornbytheperson,anddoesnotdramaticallychange theirappearance,itisacceptable.

7. REJECT.Hatswornforfashionablepurposesarenotallowed.

8. ACCEPT.Turbansandheadscarveswornforreligiouspurposesareacceptable.

9. REJECT.Veilshidingthefacecannotbeacceptedforpassportphotos.

10. REJECT.Allpassportphotosmustbetakenbyacommercialphotographer.

11. ACCEPT.Passportphotosmaybeineithercolourorblackandwhite.

12. REJECT.Passportphotosmusthaveuniformlightingwithnoflashglaresorshadows.