Bahrain reaffirms its commitment to combating human trafficking and cybercrime
Manama, July 29 (KUNA) -- Bahrain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the Committee on International Human Rights Affairs, Dr. Abdul Latif Al Zayani, reaffirmed on Wednesday his country’s commitment to combating human trafficking, as well as addressing digital fraud and cybercrimes, within an integrated legislative and judicial framework dedicated to safeguarding human rights and dignity.
Speaking on the occasion of the World Day against Trafficking in Persons, which this year is observed under the theme “Trapped in the Fraud Trap,” Al Zayani highlighted Bahrain’s coordinated efforts, in partnership with international organizations, to combat human trafficking, digital fraud, and transnational organized crime, thereby ensuring the protection and promotion of human rights.
He explained that these efforts are grounded in advanced legislation and policies focused on prevention, protection, and accountability, aligned with international best practices and implemented under Law No. (1) of 2008 on Combating Trafficking in Persons. This law contributes to protecting vulnerable groups and enhancing the efficiency of the criminal justice system.
Al Zayani pointed out that Bahrain hosts the region’s first specialized public prosecution office and court for trafficking in persons cases, alongside a center for the protection and support of migrant workers. He also noted the development of referral mechanisms for victims and the provision of necessary care and support services.
Reiterating the Kingdom’s commitment to developing its legislative and regulatory framework to combat human trafficking and prevent fraud and exploitation in cyberspace, Al Zayani emphasized efforts to improve working conditions and safeguard workers’ rights through concrete initiatives undertaken by the Ministry of Interior, the Labor Market Regulatory Authority, and other relevant national entities.
He highlighted the vital role of the Bahrain National Cyber Security Agency in creating a secure, resilient, and trustworthy digital environment, as well as implementing advanced awareness and capacity-building programs and training initiatives to combat human trafficking.
In this regard, Al Zayani added that Bahrain has maintained its leading position in the Tier 1 category globally in the field of combating human trafficking, according to the U.S. Department of State’s Trafficking in Persons Report, for the eighth consecutive year, reflecting the success of the national system in preventing this crime.
He expressed pride in community partnerships and cooperation with accredited diplomatic and consular missions, as well as collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and other relevant stakeholders, in accordance with the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and its protocols. (End) K.N.A./F.L.A.
