Whereas reported cases of gender-based violence, intimate partner violence, and human trafficking are increasing across British Columbia; And whereas BCs Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking has not been updated since its publication in 2013: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM petition the Province to declare gender-based violence, intimate partner violence, and human trafficking an epidemic in British Columbia and update BCs Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking.
Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General The Province acknowledges that intimate-partner and gender-based violence are more than an epidemic. They are a systemic crisis. In June 2025, Dr. Kim Stanton delivered a report to the Attorney General on the justice systems treatment of intimate partner and sexual violence. In December 2025, the Province reported that it has advanced work related to 13 of the 21 recommendations and identified three priority actions: a policy framework; timely, appropriate and standardized screening, risk assessment and safety planning; and creation of an ongoing internal government accountability mechanism. The review has had a profound effect and created a renewed spirit to collaborate across government and the anti-violence sector to take meaningful action on these issues. British Columbia has also advocated for changes to federal legislation to address gaps and make people safer. BC welcomed recent federal announcements on bail and sentencing reforms as well as proposed changes to the Criminal Code which include new crimes of femicide and coercive control. With the completion of BCs 2013 Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking, the focus of BCs response shifted to enhancing direct community supports for survivors as well as enforcement efforts. In July 2025, government funded the creation of the RCMPs Counter Human Trafficking Unit which provides both proactive and reactive response through training, intelligence, and investigation. Since 2011, the Civil Forfeiture Grant Program has provided more than 17.5 million in funding to support community projects related to human trafficking, sexual exploitation and sex worker safety. We continue to work with federal partners and the victim services sector on the renewal of the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking.