Current Government Efforts

Currently, there is a National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking that was introduced on September 4, 2019. There are 200 stakeholders, including the Government of Canada, law enforcement, provinces and territories, Indigenous representatives, sex worker organizations and private sectors. The aim is to come together to inform the government’s approach to combat and prevent human trafficking in Canada28 .

This new and improved initiative is federally funded, with a total of $57.22 million being invested over the next five years, starting in 2019-20. In addition, $10.28 million is being contributed annually. This national strategy offers a comprehensive and organized structure to direct actions by the Government of Canada to empower and support victims and survivors29. The United Nations Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons is a four-pillared approach that was ratified by Canada and serves as a guide for this strategy.

Prevent these crimes from occurring, and focus on raising awareness and research

Protect individuals who are victims of trafficking, and to work with the province and territories to provide services sensitive to the victims of trafficking

Prosecute any perpetrators and to improve the responses of the criminal justice system to this crime

Form both domestic and international partnerships to strengthen relationships with any stakeholders30