In a concerning trend, more than half of human trafficking incidents in Canada remain unsolved as cases have steadily increased over the past decade, according to a recent report by Statistics Canada.
The national statistical agency revealed on Friday that 58 percent of human trafficking cases reported between 2013 and 2023 have not been resolved. Factors contributing to this high rate of unsolved cases include ongoing investigations, insufficient evidence to proceed, or the lack of an identified suspect.
Over 4,500 incidents were reported by police services during this period, representing an average annual rate of 1.1 incidents per 100,000 people. The data shows a year-over-year increase in reported cases, with the most significant spike occurring between 2018 and 2019.
Alarmingly, the vast majority of victims were women and girls, with about one-quarter being children and youth under the age of 18. This underscores the vulnerability of young individuals to exploitation and the urgent need for protective measures.
Statistics Canada cautioned that official figures likely represent only a fraction of the true scope of human trafficking in the country due to its hidden and underreported nature. Many victims are unable or afraid to come forward, making it challenging to grasp the full extent of the problem.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
