Missing explores the alarming number of children and youth, especially Indigenous girls, who go missing while in government care. Released in April 2023 by the Representative for Children and Youth (RCY), the report reveals that many of these young people are not simply vanishing, but are actively running from a system that fails to meet their basic needs for safety, stability, and belonging.

The report identifies systemic “push” factors like inadequate care, racism, and colonial practices, alongside “pull” factors such as the search for community or connection, as reasons why youth leave care. Roughly 65% of missing children were Indigenous, pointing to deep-rooted inequities. In addition, the province lacks consistent data and effective response protocols, making it difficult to track and prevent these disappearances. The RCY calls for urgent reforms to create a child welfare system where all young people feel safe, supported, and seen.