The Overlap Between Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking
Many people think domestic violence and human trafficking are completely separate issues. Domestic violence happens in relationships. Trafficking is often imagined as something done by strangers or criminal networks.
But Canadian police data shows there is real overlap—especially in sex trafficking cases.
Intimate Partners Are Often Involved
Between 2014 and 2024, police data shows that in trafficking cases involving women and girls, the most common accused person was an intimate partner (36%).
This means trafficking often happens within romantic relationships—not just through strangers. While this is not the majority of cases, it is the single largest category.
Violence and Control Are Common in Both
About 39% of police-reported trafficking cases also involved crimes such as physical assault, sexual assault, or holding someone against their will.
Both domestic violence and trafficking often involve coercive control, including:
- Isolation
- Financial control
- Threats
- Psychological abuse
- Physical or sexual violence
The key difference is this:
- Domestic violence = control and abuse
- Human trafficking = control and abuse plus exploitation for profit (forcing someone to provide labour or sexual services)
Most Cases Involve Sex Trafficking
In Canada, most police-reported trafficking cases involve sex trafficking, and women and girls are disproportionately affected. Labour trafficking also occurs, particularly among migrant workers.
Why It Matters
Understanding this connection helps service providers, shelters, and communities better identify and support survivors.
Domestic violence and human trafficking are not the same—but they are not completely separate either. Recognizing that overlap leads to a more informed and effective response.
At Radiance, we recognize that our clients come to us with many different backgrounds and experiences. Because of this, our programs and support services are customized to meet the unique needs of the women and children residing at the Radiance Centre. We work alongside them to heal from trauma, rebuild their lives, and establish a future that is their own—a future where they can thrive.
Important Context
The data shows overlap, not causation. Not every domestic violence case involves trafficking. Many cases go unreported, and some may be misclassified.