Welcome to this week’s biweekly bulletin!
FEWO – Section 810 of the Criminal Code & Women’s Safety
the Standing Committee on the Status of Women, FEWO, is currently undertaking several key studies. They are examining women’s safety in relation to Section 810 of the Criminal Code, exploring how peace bonds, bail, and sentencing can better protect women from repeat offenders. Stakeholders and supporters can submit briefs to the committee by November 28.
FEWO – Draft Report on Coercive Behaviour/ “Coercive Control in Canada”
FEWO is also finalizing its draft report on coercive control, exploring how emotional, psychological, and financial abuse affects survivors. Members of the Committee have until November 19th to submit dissenting or supporting opinions before it is released.
SCC strikes down one-year mandatory minimums for Accessing Child Pornography – And the Introduction of Bill S-240
The Supreme Court of Canada recently struck down the one-year mandatory minimum for accessing child pornography, citing cruel and unusual punishment. In response, Bill S-240 has been introduced and aims to keep penalties for serious child sexual exploitation consistent and mandatory, even if courts find them too harsh under the Charter.
Link: https://www.scc-csc.ca/judgments-jugements/cb/2025/40882/
Link: https://www.parl.ca/legisinfo/en/bill/45-1/s-240
Human Trafficking Updates
In London, Ontario, eight men were charged with soliciting sex from a minor after a targeted police operation. In the Niagara region, two people from Niagara Falls were arrested for trafficking a girl under 18, facing multiple charges, including trafficking, procuring, and distributing child pornography.
Link: https://ca.news.yahoo.com/2-people-arrested-connection-human-140735107.htmlfewo
Thank you for staying informed and committed to ending gender-based violence and exploitation in Canada. We will see you again in 2 weeks!
Holly Wood
Advocacy & Research Coordinator