A Brampton City Councillor, Rowena Santos, has raised alarming concerns about the exploitation of international students by some landlords who are allegedly demanding sexual favours in exchange for housing. During a council meeting on September 4, Santos presented evidence, including rental ads, that she claims illustrate this disturbing trend, describing the situation as “essentially prostitution.”
Santos highlighted that many female international students face exploitation, often crammed into overcrowded accommodations with multiple beds in a single room. She emphasized that some landlords are offering discounts on rent for sexual favours, which she termed as “absolutely disgusting.”
Many of these students, lacking permanent status in Canada, feel vulnerable and are hesitant to report their experiences due to fear and cultural differences. Santos noted that a lack of understanding regarding consent and the meaning of “friends with benefits” contributes to their exploitation. She cited an example of an ad offering a reduced rent of $200 for those willing to engage in such arrangements.
A former international student, whose identity is being protected, shared her harrowing experiences of exploitation. She recounted instances where landlords entered her rental unit without proper notice and demanded sexual favours. “They don’t follow the rules that they have to give 24-48 hours’ notice,” she explained, detailing how these actions are part of a pattern of abuse.
Santos stated that the city is collaborating with social agencies to provide support and resources for students who have been victimized. Many students have reported serious consequences from their experiences, including mental health issues, unwanted pregnancies, and even suicides.
In response to the growing number of problem rentals, councillors are advocating for the Residential Rental Licensing pilot program, initiated in early 2024, as a potential measure to combat such abuses and protect vulnerable tenants in the community.
