Parliament is back in full swing, which means we have a lot going on!
Child Luring Conviction in Niagara
First, A restaurant owner was convicted of child luring after attempting to purchase sex from a 16‑year‑old. As a result, the Niagara Police released his name in a local newspaper. Jennifer Richardson, Canada’s Chief Advisor to Combat Human Trafficking, highlighted that publicly naming offenders matters – not just for justice, but to deter others. In this case, naming the offender brought real financial consequences for the business, showing how transparency plays a key role in ending demand for sexual exploitation.
Ontario 2025–2030 Anti‑Human Trafficking Strategy
On a policy front, Ontario has released its 2025–2030 Anti‑Human Trafficking Strategy – the largest provincial investment of its kind in Canada. At $345 million, the strategy expands education for children and youth in care, adds training for important sectors, strengthens supports for at‑risk youth, and introduces survivor peer networks. It also includes programs tailored to Indigenous communities and specialized intervention teams within police services, called CARE (Children At Risk of Exploitation) Units.
Jail Not Bail Act
In Parliament, the motion for rapid passage of the Conservatives’ Jail Not Bail Act was denied this week, meaning the proposed bail reforms will remain under Parliamentary review for the foreseeable future. We are still awaiting updates from the Liberals on their proposed Bail changes, expected later this month.
Senate Advances Key Justice and Anti-Trafficking Bills
Bill S‑236 had its first reading in the Senate, proposing amendments to the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights, which would ensure stronger victims’ rights and a national implementation framework. Bill S‑209 continues in committee review, and Bill S‑235 – which would make Canada’s National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking a legal requirement – awaits second reading after its first reading on September 25.
The U.S. 2025 Trafficking in Persons Report
Finally, the U.S. released its 2025 Trafficking in Persons Report, maintaining Canada’s Tier 1 ranking. This means that Canada is fully meeting the minimum standards for the elimination of human trafficking, as defined by the U.S. Trafficking Victims Protection Act. The report highlighted Canadian efforts such as Ontario’s renewed strategy, a confidential tip line for temporary foreign workers, and the Migrant Worker Support Program.
And that’s your update for this week! For more information, check out Defend Dignity’s website and our webinar series. Thanks for tuning in, and we’ll see you in two weeks with more updates on all things advocacy!
Holly Wood
Research & Advocacy Coordinator