Edmonton’s International Airport says it has opened a “safe room” to serve as a dedicated space for victims of human trafficking or domestic abuse.
The airport made the announcement on July 30, saying victims are often transported through airports before they are exploited in various industries, including “sex work.”
Human trafficking involves recruiting, transporting, holding, or controlling a person to benefit from them through sexual exploitation or forced labour, according to the federal government. Traffickers can make up to $280,800 per victim each year, the Alberta Centre to End Trafficking said. Victims can be as young as 13 years old.
The room at the Edmonton airport is a “secure, private and comforting area” where individuals experiencing trauma or crisis at the airport can stay, according to the airport news release. It has couches, a bed, a kitchenette, and a full bathroom….