In a significant move to protect international students from human trafficking and exploitation, Brampton City Council has unanimously passed a resolution calling on the federal and provincial governments for legislative and financial support. The resolution, introduced by Councillor Rowena Santos (Wards 1 and 5) at the Council’s General Committee meeting on October 23, underscores the urgent need to strengthen local measures in response to the increasing risks faced by international students in the city.
“Brampton is home to thousands of international students who contribute significantly to the city’s culture and economy. However, many face financial challenges, housing insecurity, and a lack of adequate institutional support, making them prime targets for exploitation and trafficking,” the city’s statement noted. Female students, in particular, have been exposed to predatory landlords and traffickers, leading to cases of unwanted pregnancies, mental health crises, and even suicides.
With its proximity to Toronto Pearson Airport and significant international student population, Brampton has become a focal point for these exploitative activities. Mayor Patrick Brown pointed to statistics revealing that since 2020, Peel police have conducted 110 investigations related to human trafficking in 2024 alone, arresting 160 individuals and laying 666 charges.
“Today, the City of Brampton is saying very clearly that we want to zone-in on this cancer within our society and our country to combat human trafficking. It happens in plain sight,” Mayor Brown said.
Expanding Local Initiatives and Calling for Legislative Support
Councillor Santos’ resolution not only calls on higher levels of government for assistance but also focuses on enhancing local initiatives within Brampton’s jurisdiction. The city has launched several programs, including an International Students Charter, the Residential Rental Licensing (RRL) pilot program, and an International Student Collaborative, alongside an anti-human-trafficking strategy.
“Our community has worked hard to address the challenges faced by international students, but more must be done,” said Councillor Santos. “By enhancing the RRL program and establishing a culturally sensitive support hub, we are ensuring these students have access to safe housing and the resources they need to thrive.”
The council has directed city staff to work with community partners to develop a culturally sensitive pilot program offering comprehensive services such as housing assistance, mental health support, employment resources, and anti-trafficking interventions. The resolution calls on the federal government to fund this pilot program and enable local service groups to provide the needed resources for international students.
Addressing Systemic Challenges
The city’s statement also highlighted that many international students are unable to access regional support programs due to restrictive federal and provincial criteria, excluding those without Canadian citizenship, permanent residency, or who are refugee claimants. Fear of deportation, expulsion from school, and a lack of culturally sensitive support programs have prevented many students from seeking help.
Brampton’s leadership is urging all levels of government to take coordinated action to combat human trafficking and support the well-being of international students. Council’s resolution aims to create a safer environment for these students by addressing the root causes of exploitation and ensuring comprehensive support services.