Dubai: A UN official commended the United Arab Emirates for its remarkable efforts in combating trafficking in persons. ''The UAE has made significant progress in combating this crime, actively collaborating with the international community. It has ratified vital international agreements, including the United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organised Crime and its protocols - especially the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress, and Punish Trafficking in Persons, particularly Women and Children, adopted in 2000,'' Dr. Mohannad Fayez Salim Aldweikat, Regional Coordinator for Human Trafficking Programmes at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) for the GCC Region, told a seminar organised by Dubai Police to mark the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on 30th July in cooperation with the Anti-Human Trafficking Committee at the Ministry of Interior.
According to Emirates News Agency, the UAE has enacted national legislation specifically targeting human trafficking, ensuring compliance with these protocols, protecting victims' rights, enforcing stringent penalties, and promoting national and regional cooperation for effective prevention. The seminar, themed "Together Against Human Trafficking: Strict Legislation, Smart Technologies, and a Safe Work Environment Free from Exploitation," highlighted the UAE's robust laws that impose severe penalties for trafficking offenses. It also examined how artificial intelligence and big data can aid authorities in identifying perpetrators and recognizing patterns related to this cross-border crime, as well as the efforts of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization to protect domestic workers from exploitation.
Dr. Aldweikat highlighted the collaboration with the Human Rights Department of Dubai Police in developing a specialized diploma in combating human trafficking, resulting in the graduation of over 754 participants from across the Arab world. Additionally, top graduates were prepared through train-the-trainer courses, allowing them to lead regional training initiatives as national and regional experts for the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. He emphasized the UAE's focus on practical solutions to this pressing issue, including the formation of the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking and the implementation of a comprehensive national strategy.
The event, held in the Dubai Police Officers Club, commenced with remarks from Major General Dr. Saleh Abdullah Murad, Acting Assistant Commandant for Excellence and Pioneering Affairs at Dubai Police. In his opening remarks, Major General Dr. Murad stated that human trafficking is one of the most pressing crimes threatening societies, infringing fundamental human, religious, and ethical values. Tackling this issue necessitates a united effort from institutions and individuals, especially in light of the challenges posed by modern technologies and transnational organised crime.
Dr. Murad emphasized the seriousness of the measures being implemented at all levels, reflecting a strong commitment to upholding human rights. The state's pioneering legislation, institutional initiatives, and international partnerships underscore its alignment with international standards. Recognizing that most victims of this crime are women and children, Dubai Police has made it a priority to establish support mechanisms that safeguard the privacy of these groups. The 'Victim Support' Service within their smart application, specifically tailored for victims of human trafficking, enables quick and safe access to comprehensive support, whether legal, psychological, or social, thereby enhancing the protection of their rights.