Region of Waterloo International Airport launches human trafficking awareness program

The Region of Waterloo International Airport has launched a new program to recognize and report signs of human trafficking. CTV's Hannah Schmidt explains.

The Region of Waterloo International Airport has launched a new program aimed at training airport employees to recognize and report signs of human trafficking.

The initiative, launched in partnership with the #NotInMyCity movement and the Waterloo Regional Police Service’s Human Trafficking Unit, is part of a growing national effort to combat one of the fastest-growing crimes in Canada.

“Human trafficking is one of the fastest growing crimes in Canada and that is really, really concerning,” said Region of Waterloo Chair, Karen Redman. “So anything we can do to help victims get out of that kind of downward spiral, out of being victims of this system, we’re happy to do it.”

The #NotInMyCity campaign, founded by Canadian country music artist Paul Brandt, works to raise awareness and prevent human trafficking across several sectors, including aviation.

“Airports play a crucial role in addressing and suppressing human trafficking, awareness and education are a priority,” said Brandt in a media release. “We are committed to working with airport employees, law enforcement and everyday people to increase awareness and take action against trafficking, citing that thousands of Canadians are now recognizing the signs and knowing how to respond.”

As part of the program, airport staff will complete specialized e-learning modules developed by #NotInMyCity, while signage and informational materials will be placed throughout the terminal. The initiative also provides tools for reporting suspected cases of trafficking in a way that prioritizes the safety of potential victims.

“We know that thousands of people travel through this airport,” said Chief of the Waterloo Regional Police Service, Mark Crowell. “It’s one of the busiest airports in all of Canada. So knowing that people can mobilize, they can create awareness and to provide support for victims and survivors of human trafficking. This is one of the many things within this region we can do to help to improve the safety in our communities.”

According to recent statistics, human trafficking generates an estimated $150 billion in illegal profits globally each year. In Canada, 93 per cent of trafficking victims are Canadian citizens, and 21 per cent are under the age of 18. Girls and Indigenous women are especially vulnerable; while Indigenous people make up five per cent of Canada’s population, they are overrepresented among trafficking victims, according to the 2021 Census.

“We know that being part of the 400 series is also a trigger and that’s why it’s one of the pillars in our community safety and well-being,” said Redman. “We know that we need to have eyes on the street and eyes on people when they’re not necessarily realizing they’re being observed so that we can help.”

The Region of Waterloo is one of several Canadian airports participating in the initiative as #NotInMyCity continues to expand its reach across the country.

To learn more visit, notinmycity.ca