Bahrain reiterate efforts to combat Trafficking in Persons

TDT | Manama                                 

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s unwavering dedication to continuing efforts to address the issue of trafficking in persons was reaffirmed by Labour Minister and Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) chairman Jameel Humaidan.

On the occasion of Bahrain’s celebration of the World Day against Trafficking in Persons today, the minister highlighted the kingdom’s progress in promoting a comprehensive human rights system. Humaidan attributed this significant achievement to the strong approach of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the follow-up of HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

Under HM King’s leadership, the values of equality and workers’ rights have been prioritized, along with a firm stance against human trafficking. Notably, Bahrain has garnered global recognition for its efforts in combating trafficking in persons, maintaining a leading position in the US State Department’s report on this matter for the sixth consecutive year.

The minister emphasized several key initiatives that have contributed to Bahrain’s success in this area. These include the implementation of the Wages Protection System, the introduction of an optional insurance system for domestic workers, the issuance of flexible work permits, the establishment of a tripartite contract for domestic workers, and the dedicated fight against forced labour.

Furthermore, specialized prosecution for trafficking in persons and a special court have been established to further strengthen the nation’s resolve in addressing this crime. Through these comprehensive efforts, Bahrain remains committed to upholding human rights, protecting workers, and combating trafficking in persons to build a safer and more just society.

Opportunity to evaluate Nouf Abdul Rahman Jamsheer, the CEO of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority and Chair of the National Committee to Combat Trafficking in Persons, highlighted the occasion as an opportunity to evaluate the measures taken by countries in addressing this crime, develop their capabilities, and keep abreast of developments in this crime. She further stressed the importance of coordinating international efforts to develop measures to address the crime of trafficking in persons, calling at the same time to intensify awareness-raising efforts.

Shura Council Chairman Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh said that Bahrain’s maintaining its Tier-1 status in the US Department of State’s 2023 Trafficking in Persons (TiP) Report for the sixth consecutive year indicates its initiatives aimed at upholding human rights, criminalising human trafficking, and its commitment to international treaties and agreements related to human rights.

Speaker Ahmed bin Salman Al Musallam said the Representatives’ Council is always keen to boost work in developing the legislative and oversight systems in all fields, especially in combating human trafficking.

Record in respecting human rights

Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani hailed Bahrain’s achievements and record in respecting human rights, protecting human dignity, and combating human trafficking.

Dr. Al Zayani, who is also Head of the National Human Rights Commission, expressed pride in Bahrain’s success in maintaining "Tier 1" status for the sixth consecutive year in the United States Department of State’s 2023 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, which is the highest annual international classification in this field.

He commended the efforts of the National Commission for Combating Trafficking in Persons, chaired by Interior Minister General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, hailing the role of the Minister of Labour and Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) Chairman Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan and their contributions to raising awareness and enforcing the law.