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In a pressing dialogue surrounding human trafficking and community safety, Jennifer Richardson, the federal government’s chief advisor on the issue, has urged the Canadian government to implement robust measures to protect local women and girls from exploitation as it accelerates the approval of mining and energy projects. With an emphasis on Indigenous communities often located near these developments, Richardson highlights the urgent need for businesses to take responsibility for their impact on vulnerable populations.
A Focus on Indigenous Communities
Richardson’s remarks come as Ottawa pushes forward with a strategy to expedite the approval process for major resource projects, including a new initiative led by Prime Minister Mark Carney aimed at reducing approval times to less than two years. However, as Richardson points out, this economic drive must not come at the expense of safety and dignity for Indigenous women and girls, who are disproportionately affected by sex trafficking.
In her experience, Richardson, who herself was a victim of trafficking at the age of 13, understands the dire consequences of overlooking these communities. She asserts that companies operating in remote areas have a moral obligation to ensure their activities do not contribute to the exploitation of women living nearby. “Companies must be vigilant in preventing their workforce from causing harm in the communities they engage with,” she stated, drawing attention to the troubling correlation between transient worker populations and increased violence against women.
The Link Between Resource Development and Violence
The connection between resource extraction projects and the rise in violence against Indigenous women was starkly outlined in the 2019 report from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. The report documented substantial evidence linking the presence of transient workers to heightened incidences of sexual harassment and assault. Despite many companies having policies in place to address these issues, the report concluded that the implementation of such policies is often inconsistent, leaving many women at risk.
Richardson’s insights echo the findings of the inquiry, as she notes the alarming trend: “Where you have concentrations of men in remote areas, particularly those with disposable income, you often see a spike in exploitation.” This pattern presents a significant challenge for communities already grappling with the legacy of colonialism and systemic violence.
Proactive Measures at Woodfibre LNG
In an effort to combat these challenges, the Woodfibre LNG project near Squamish, British Columbia, has developed a comprehensive strategy to safeguard the local population. This initiative includes a dedicated tip line for reporting trafficking incidents and the establishment of multiple checkpoints at the worksite, aimed at preventing the entry of trafficked individuals.
According to Woodfibre LNG spokesperson Sean Beardow, the project’s Gender and Cultural Safety Plan, launched in 2024, is a pioneering step in creating a safe work environment. “Our goal is to foster a community free from gender violence, harassment, and coercion,” Beardow stated, underscoring the importance of integrating Indigenous perspectives into safety protocols. More than 9,000 employees are required to undergo mandatory gender safety training, facilitated by Indigenous trainers, as part of the initiative.
The Role of Government and Industry Collaboration
Richardson’s role as Chief Advisor to Combat Human Trafficking, appointed in January 2025, positions her at the forefront of this critical issue. She emphasizes that while government efforts are vital, effective solutions must involve collaboration with the private sector. “The government cannot tackle this alone; companies must also take proactive steps to protect those living near their operations,” she explained.
As the national strategy to combat trafficking undergoes renewal, Richardson is vocal about the need for ongoing discussions with industry leaders to ensure the safety of women and girls. She recently underlined the significance of community engagement and vigilance in these conversations, advocating for a holistic approach that prioritises the well-being of Indigenous populations.
Why it Matters
The need for immediate action to protect vulnerable groups in the face of rapid resource development cannot be overstated. As Canada embarks on a path to economic recovery through major projects, the imperative to safeguard Indigenous women and girls from exploitation must remain at the forefront of policy discussions. By prioritising their safety and dignity, Canada not only addresses a pressing humanitarian issue but also builds a more just and equitable society. The ongoing commitment to this cause is essential, as the repercussions of neglect will reverberate through communities for generations to come.
