Canada
City of Brampton Launches Bold Initiative to Protect International Students from Exploitation and Trafficking. Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown announced a decisive strategy to combat the exploitation and human trafficking of international students, addressing the unique challenges they face within Brampton’s diverse, rapidly growing community. This bold initiative, championed by Community Services Chair Rowena Santos, introduces measures to strengthen protections, advocate for systemic reform at provincial and federal levels, and foster community-driven support to safeguard Brampton’s international student population.
Targeted Actions to Protect and Support
Brampton is home to thousands of international students who greatly enrich the city’s cultural fabric and economy. However, many face financial hardships, housing insecurity, and insufficient institutional support, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and trafficking. Tragically, some female students have been exploited by predatory landlords and traffickers, leading to mental health crises, unwanted pregnancies, and even suicide.
Under the newly approved resolution, Brampton City staff will assess improvements to the Residential Rental Licensing (RRL) program to better protect international students. The plan includes raising public awareness of human trafficking risks and addressing illegal rental practices. Additionally, Brampton will partner with local organizations to launch a culturally sensitive pilot program, offering comprehensive services such as housing assistance, mental health support, employment resources, and anti-trafficking interventions designed to address the unique needs of international students. The City has called on the federal government to fund this pilot program, enabling local organizations to provide critical services for these students.
Advocating for Legislative Change
The City has also urged federal and provincial authorities to review policies that exacerbate the vulnerabilities of international students. Visa restrictions on work hours often push students into unsafe employment, while deportation conditions are frequently exploited by traffickers. Brampton is advocating for legislative reforms that would expand legal work hours, eliminate deportation risks tied to specific employment types, and improve access to regional support programs for international students.
Introducing the International Students Charter
To bolster protections further, Brampton is advocating for its International Students Charter to be endorsed by federal and provincial governments, as well as post-secondary institutions across Ontario. This charter sets clear responsibilities for institutions, requiring them to provide robust orientation and support services to help students navigate legal rights, housing, and employment, thus reducing their susceptibility to exploitation.
Statements of Support
In his statement, Mayor Brown stressed the value international students bring to Brampton and the urgency of protecting them from exploitation. “This motion is a vital step toward providing these students with the protections they deserve. By strengthening local programs and advocating for legislative change, we are sending a clear message: Brampton will not tolerate the exploitation of its students.”
Regional Councillor Rowena Santos echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the City’s commitment to creating long-lasting, positive change. “This motion is about creating real, lasting change. By enhancing the RRL program and establishing a culturally sensitive support hub, we ensure these students have access to safe housing and the resources they need to thrive.”
Gurpreet Malhotra, CEO of Indus Community Services, praised Brampton’s proactive stance, highlighting the need for community-driven responses to this human rights issue. “The exploitation of international students is a human rights issue, and it requires a community-driven response. We welcome the City’s support to create culturally appropriate services and advocate for stronger protections, ensuring these students are empowered and safe.”
A City Leading by Example
As one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities, Brampton, with nearly 700,000 residents, aims to set a precedent in protecting vulnerable communities, particularly international students. By fostering a safe and inclusive environment, Brampton is building a supportive city that prioritizes the well-being of all its residents, while embracing and celebrating diversity.
