Brampton is taking decisive steps to combat the exploitation and human trafficking of international students. Thousands of students in the city face financial hardship, housing insecurity, and inadequate institutional support, making them vulnerable to predatory landlords and traffickers, with some cases leading to severe mental health crises and exploitation.
“Our community has worked hard to address the challenges faced by international students, but more must be done. This motion is about creating real, lasting change. 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.”
– Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor, Wards 1 & 5, Chair, Community Services
In response, Brampton and Peel Region have acted decisively. The International Students Charter “Brampton Charter – A New Revolution for International Students” and the Residential Rental Licensing Pilot “RRL Pilot” are at the core of local efforts. Councillor Santos has been a driving force behind these foundational changes, advocating for protections that elevate the living standards of international students while spearheading the creation and implementation of the Brampton Charter and Residential Rental Licensing.
Peel Regional Police’s Human Trafficking team, among the first in Ontario, continues to play a critical role in identifying and prosecuting traffickers, raising awareness, and delivering specialized training to prevent exploitation. However, federal and provincial restrictions still limit essential support for non-citizens and refugees.
Press Conference coverage by CP24 (left) and Global News (Right)
Newstalk 1010
Brampton continues to push beyond its jurisdiction, with Councillor Santos advocating at the federal and provincial levels for stronger student visa regulations and requiring institutions to provide comprehensive orientations to international students. These orientations must include information on housing, legal rights, employment options, and protection from exploitation.
During the delegation Gurpreet Malhotra from Indus commented that “International students contribute more money to our university system than the province.” Bob from Peel police stated “We have a dedicated police force for human trafficking, unlike many places in the country.“
The city also calls for increasing legal working hours for international students to 40 hours per week and removing deportation conditions tied to “sex work”, enabling students to pursue legitimate employment and reduce vulnerability.
Further, Brampton is advocating for tougher regulations on private colleges, the creation of a dedicated community support hub, and enhanced access to mental health and anti-trafficking services for international students. Collaborative efforts with Peel Regional Police include supporting intelligence-led joint investigations across Ontario and investing in national databases to strengthen human trafficking investigations. The city will collaborate with community partners to develop a culturally sensitive pilot program offering wrap-around services such as housing assistance, mental health support, and anti-trafficking interventions.
Through local, regional, and national partnerships, Brampton is confronting the exploitation of international students with a clear focus on providing safety, support, and pathways to success.
For additional inquiries reach out to our office: rowena.santos@brampton.ca
Quotes
- “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.”
– Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton - “The exploitation of international students is a human rights issue, and it requires a community-driven response. We welcome the City’s support to advocate for create culturally appropriate services and advocate for stronger protections, ensuring these students are empowered and safe.”
– Gurpreet Malhotra, CEO, Indus Community Services
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