Brampton Takes Strong Action Against Exploitation and Trafficking of International Students

The City of Brampton has announced a bold initiative aimed at combating the exploitation and trafficking of international students, a growing concern in the city’s diverse and expanding population. Mayor Patrick Brown revealed a comprehensive plan designed to address the significant challenges faced by these students, particularly targeting human trafficking and exploitation in the housing and employment sectors.

“International students bring so much value to Brampton, but too often, they face exploitation and trafficking. This motion is a vital step toward providing them with the protections they deserve. By strengthening our local programs and calling for legislative change, we are sending a clear message: Brampton will not tolerate the exploitation of its students,” said Mayor Patrick Brown, emphasizing the city’s commitment to safeguarding its student population.

With thousands of international students contributing to Brampton’s cultural and economic landscape, the city recognizes their vulnerabilities. Many students experience financial hardship, lack secure housing, and often fall prey to illegal practices. Female students, in particular, have been subjected to predatory landlords and human traffickers, leading to severe outcomes like unwanted pregnancies, mental health crises, and suicides.

In response, the City Council approved a resolution put forth by Community Services Chair, Rowena Santos, that focuses on enhancing protections and advocating for systemic change at higher levels of government. Central to the initiative is the improvement of the Residential Rental Licensing (RRL) program, which aims to protect students from unsafe living conditions and illegal rental practices. This move aligns with efforts to raise awareness about human trafficking, ensuring that Brampton’s rental market is safe and fair for all students.

A key element of the plan involves creating a pilot program designed to provide international students with wrap-around support services. These services will include housing assistance, mental health support, employment resources, and interventions against trafficking. The culturally sensitive program, developed in collaboration with community partners, will be tailored to meet the specific needs of international students. Brampton is calling on the federal government to fund this initiative, recognizing the importance of securing resources to protect one of its most vulnerable populations.

Advocacy at both the provincial and federal levels is another cornerstone of Brampton’s approach. The city is urging governments to review policies that inadvertently contribute to the exploitation of international students. Visa restrictions on work hours force many students into dangerous, under-the-table jobs, while deportation conditions tied to “sex work” are weaponized by traffickers. Brampton is pushing for legislative changes, including increasing legal work hours for students and expanding access to regional support programs.

The City is also seeking the endorsement of Brampton’s International Students Charter from both levels of government and Ontario’s post-secondary institutions. This Charter outlines the responsibilities of institutions to provide comprehensive orientation and support services, equipping students with the knowledge needed to navigate legal rights, housing, and employment, and ultimately prevent exploitation.