2026 FIFA World Cup Human Trafficking Analysis: Vancouver
Since May 2026, GAATW Canada has been researching claims about human trafficking in the context of the FIFA World Cup in Vancouver.
The research asks whether evidence supports these claims and how anti-trafficking responses were developed in relation to the event.
The research involves interviews, focus groups, public documents, and access-to-information requests to assess whether evidence substantiates FIFA-related trafficking claims, document the responses developed, and examine their effectiveness and impacts on affected communities.
This project provides evidence-based analysis and recommendations to inform preparations for future mega-sporting events, with a focus on anti-trafficking, in Vancouver and beyond.
GAATW Canada began this research in May 2026, with findings expected in early 2027.
PHASE 1 (complete)
Secure research funding and manage project administration.
PHASE 2 (complete)
Recruit research participants.
PHASE 3 (complete)
Collect data through interviews and focus groups.
PHASE 4 (in progress)
Analyze research data.
PHASE 5 (not yet started)
Share research findings and implement recommendations.
The 2026 FIFA study expands GAATW Canada’s existing body of research, which includes the 2010 Vancouver Olympics Analysis on Human Trafficking.
Researchers: Julie Murray (PhD student, University of Ottawa) and Sydney Brown (PhD student, University of Victoria), and Dr. Julie Ham (Associate Professor, Brock University)
Funders: GAATW Canada would like to thank the University of Victoria, the Houssian Foundation and the Vancouver Foundation for funding this research project.
