Edmonton International Airport opens safe room to support survivors of human trafficking and crisis

On the United Nations World Day against Trafficking in Persons, Edmonton International Airport (YEG) opened the Safe Room at YEG, a secure space designed to support survivors of human trafficking, victims of domestic violence, or those experiencing tragedy while at the airport.

YEG has collaborated with #NotInMyCity, the Action Coalition on Human Trafficking Alberta (ACT), the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT), the Centre to Empower All Survivors of Exploitation (CEASE) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) to launch this initiative and work together to help end human trafficking.

“Strengthening and advancing our human trafficking programme is crucial to staying ahead of evolving threats, improving survivor support and enhancing prevention efforts. Airports are uniquely positioned to disrupt human trafficking at the source of travel. We have the power to say ‘not in my city’ and ‘not in my airport,’ and to take action that will disrupt human trafficking,” said Carmen Donnelly, Vice President, Passenger Experience & Terminal Operations, Edmonton International Airport (YEG).

The Safe Room is a secure, private and comforting area designed to temporarily accommodate individuals experiencing trauma or crisis at the airport. It includes a livable space with couches, a bed, a kitchenette and a full bathroom. Fresh clothes, food, phones, internet access and other essential resources are also provided.

Paul Brandt, Founder and CEO of #NotInMyCity, Co-Chair of the Alberta Centre to End Trafficking in Persons and award-winning Canadian Country Music Artist, commented: “Human trafficking is one of the fastest-growing crimes in Canada, and airports are key locations where traffickers move victims. By opening a Safe Room, YEG is not only providing a secure space for those in crisis, it’s sending a powerful message: we see you, we believe you and help is available. This initiative reflects the kind of leadership and action that disrupts trafficking networks and creates real hope for survivors.”

YEG has also partnered with #NotInMyCity to offer human trafficking awareness training to its team members and partners. Many survivors travel through major airports before being exploited in industries such as hospitality, agriculture or sex work. By increasing awareness of the signs of trafficking, more people can help identify and prevent this crime.

Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services for the Government of Alberta, said: “Airports play a critical role in intercepting human trafficking at the point of travel, and I am pleased to see Edmonton International Airport (YEG) open the Safe Room at YEG which will help support those in need. Alberta’s government is also working closely with the Alberta Centre to End Trafficking in Persons to strengthen our province’s capacity to prevent, identify and respond to human trafficking. We will continue to forge strong partnerships across governments, law enforcement and community organisations to disrupt criminal activity and protect those at risk.”

As part of the opening, an Indigenous Naming Ceremony was held, naming the space Kîsê Watotâtôwin ᑮᓭ ᐘᑐᑖᑑᐏᐣ, meaning sharing and giving our kindness and compassion to each other. Indigenous people are disproportionately targeted by traffickers, and naming the space in an Indigenous language and blessing it through ceremony provides a culturally significant connection to healing, safety and spirituality.

Airports are key points where trafficking can be identified. Warning signs include passengers unable to explain their travel plans, lacking control of their identification, travelling with little luggage or inappropriate clothing, holding last-minute tickets paid in cash, or minors accompanied by non-relatives.

If you suspect someone is being trafficked, call 911. To learn more about how you can help, visit https://notinmycity.ca/learn/. Together, action can end human trafficking.