Human trafficking and sexual exploitation happen in both rural and urban communities. If you or someone you know may be experiencing trafficking or exploitation, help is available. You are not alone. Call 911 or your local police.
What Is Human Trafficking?
Human trafficking occurs when a person is controlled, manipulated, harmed or exploited for someone else’s profit. It is a serious criminal offence and a violation of human rights.
Trafficking involves force, threats, deception, abuse of power or taking advantage of a person’s vulnerability to exploit them for sexual services, labour or other purposes.
Trafficking does not always involve crossing borders. Many people are exploited within their own communities. It is about power and control. It is never your fault.
Different Forms of Human Trafficking
Human trafficking can take different forms, including:
- Sexual exploitation: Being forced, pressured or manipulated into sexual acts, including selling sex or being filmed or photographed.
- Forced labour: Being made to work against your will under abusive or exploitative conditions.
- Forced marriage: Being pressured or forced to marry without full and free consent.
How Trafficking Often Begins
Trafficking often starts gradually and may not look like exploitation at first. It may begin with:
- Attention, affection or promises of love
- Gifts, money or special treatment
- Offers of employment or financial opportunity
- Emotional support or friendship
Signs Someone May Need Help
Human trafficking does not always look the same, but warning signs may include:
- Appearing scared, anxious or controlled by another person
- Not being allowed to speak for themselves
- Being isolated from friends, family or community
- Having no control over money or identification documents
- Working excessive hours or living at their workplace
- Being pressured into sexual acts or work they did not choose
- Being frequently transported between communities
People who have experienced trafficking often say they felt:
- Invisible
- Isolated
- Afraid they would not be believed
We want you to know: We see you. We believe you. Support is available.
Get Help Now
You can call 211 or visit the 211 Saskatchewan website for confidential information and support. 211 Saskatchewan connects people to:
- Emergency shelters
- Victim services
- Counselling and mental health supports
- Safety planning
- Cultural and community supports
- Programs for youth and adults
You can call for yourself or on behalf of someone else.
Additional Resources
The Government of Saskatchewan, through the Status of Women Office and the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General, is working in partnership with 211 Saskatchewan, a United Way service, to increase awareness of human trafficking and sexual exploitation across the province.
Awareness materials have been developed in consultation with organizations and individuals who support survivors. Download printable posters and materials to help raise awareness in your community.
These materials aim to:
- Help people recognize the signs of trafficking.
- Reduce stigma and barriers to seeking help.
- Connect individuals directly to support services through 211.
This initiative is supported in part by the Government of Canada through the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence.
Additional support is available through:
- Victim Service Units and Agencies
- Interpersonal Violence and Abuse Programs
- Sexual Violence Information and Support Services
- Interpersonal Violence Leave
- Clare’s Law
These services can provide safety planning, legal information, counselling and practical assistance.