Ottawa Tourism Champions Anti-human Trafficking Initiatives

Ottawa Tourism has implemented a comprehensive Anti-Human Trafficking Action Plan, positioning the city at the forefront of combating human trafficking within the business tourism and hospitality sectors.

This pioneering initiative underscores Ottawa's unwavering commitment to safety, justice, and ethical responsibility, enhancing its role as a premier destination for business events and their attendees.

Recognising the pervasive issue of human trafficking, Ottawa Tourism has collaborated with key partners — including Meeting Professionals Against Human Trafficking (MPAHT), Voice Found, and The Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking — to develop a strategic plan focused on awareness, education, and prevention. This collective effort aims to foster a secure environment for all visitors and residents.

Key components of the Anti-Human Trafficking Action Plan include:

• Enhanced Access to Information: Ottawa Tourism is expanding its digital resources to provide vital information on human trafficking to the public, tourism industry members, and event organisers. This initiative ensures that comprehensive materials are readily available to those who need them.
   
• Comprehensive Training Programmes: In partnership with industry experts, Ottawa Tourism is offering specialised training sessions designed to equip tourism businesses and professionals with the knowledge to identify and address potential human trafficking situations effectively.
   
• Destination-Wide Assessment: An audit of Ottawa Tourism's members is being conducted to evaluate current anti-trafficking efforts, identify gaps, and inform future strategies to combat human trafficking more effectively.

In a landmark move, Ottawa Tourism has become an official partner of The Code (The Tourism Child-Protection Code of Conduct), demonstrating a steadfast commitment to responsible tourism practices that protect children from sexual exploitation. This partnership serves as a catalyst, encouraging other tourism organisations and destinations to take decisive action against human trafficking.

By proactively addressing human trafficking, Ottawa not only upholds the highest standards of morality and justice but also enhances its reputation as a safe and conscientious choice for business events. 

"At Ottawa Tourism, we believe that the travel and events industry has a profound responsibility to protect the most vulnerable in our communities,” says Lesley Pincombe (on the right), Vice President, Meetings and Major Events at Ottawa Tourism. “By taking a stand against human trafficking, we are not only making our city safer but also setting a new standard for ethical tourism. Our commitment to education, collaboration, and action ensures that Ottawa remains a premier destination where visitors, business event attendees, and residents can feel safe, valued, and protected."

For more information on Ottawa Tourism's Anti-Human Trafficking Action Plan and resources available, visit their website