Research Examining the Connection Between Sex Trafficking and the Disappearances of Indigenous Women and Girls (Thomson Reuters)

Despite being only 5% of the population, Indigenous women and girls account for over 50% of trafficking victims.

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The report (July 2025) from Thomson Reuters used geospatial analysis to uncover trends of sex ads and cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. It’s believed to be the first time the two sets of data have been overlaid to detect potential linkages and patterns.

Manitoba, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Ontario are identified as focal points for MMIW cases. The research showed that Edmonton and Ontario – particularly the Greater Toronto Area – have high numbers of both disappearances and sex ads featuring Indigenous women..

Published on

July 30, 2025