Missing children cases rise in Quebec, prompting prevention push
Posted May 5, 2026 10:32 am.
A rise in missing children cases in Quebec is prompting renewed calls for stronger prevention efforts, according to new data from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
In 2025, 7,398 missing persons were reported in the province, up 745 from the previous year, an average of about 20 cases per day. The Missing Children’s Network says most cases involve runaways, which can expose youth to risks such as exploitation, violence and trafficking.
“Too often, we intervene once the disappearance has occurred, when the signs of vulnerability are present long before,” said executive director Mélanie Aubut.
The organization is calling for stronger prevention programs and warning that current resources are under strain due to funding cuts.
The issue is being highlighted during Missing Children’s Month, which includes awareness events and activities leading up to National Missing Children’s Day on May 25.
