Mr. Speaker, as Canada and the world marks 16 days of activism against gender violence, a critical concern is human trafficking, a heinous form of modern-day slavery that preys on the most vulnerable, especially women and girls. Canadians are not immune from this terrible crime. The forms of abuse and risk associated with trafficking include physical, sexual and psychological abuse, economic exploitation and abusive working or living conditions.
Our government recently launched a national action plan to combat human trafficking. Eighteen federal departments are working together to combat human trafficking, identify victims and protect our most vulnerable. Our government has also announced a call for proposals through Status of Women Canada to support community action plans that will reduce trafficking of women and girls.
Once again, we are taking real action to improve safety for women and girls across Canada.