Petition for Child Safety and Victim Protection Reform in Canada

Children deserve a justice system that places their safety and well-being at the forefront.

Through our experiences navigating the criminal justice system, many families have become aware of gaps that can leave children and parents feeling unprotected and unheard. We believe reforms are needed to better protect child victims and strengthen community safety.

We call upon the Government of Canada and provincial governments to:

•Strengthen protections and support for child victims and their families throughout criminal proceedings.

•Review whether, and in what circumstances, documented histories of sexual offences against children should be considered in matters involving child safety, risk assessments, and sentencing decisions, while preserving the right to a fair trial.

•Establish mandatory and enforceable victim notification procedures so that families are promptly informed of release conditions, protective orders, and other measures that directly affect their safety.

•Improve communication and accountability between police, Crown counsel, and victim services to ensure that no family is left unaware of protections intended for their safety.

Statistics Canada reports that children and youth represent a significant proportion of sexual assault victims, and experts widely recognize that these crimes are significantly underreported. Research also shows that child sexual abuse can have long-term psychological impacts, including trauma-related disorders. In Canada, responses to child protection and sexual offences vary by province, which can create inconsistencies in how cases are handled and how victims are supported.

We call on elected officials, justice leaders, and communities across Canada to work together to strengthen child protection laws, improve victim notification and support, and ensure that the safety and well-being of children remain a paramount consideration in our justice system. Join us in demanding meaningful reform that puts children first.