Human trafficking rates reach new low in 2014

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UAE aims to become safest for victims of human trafficking, Interior Ministry says

Abu Dhabi: Human trafficking crime rates reached a new low in 2014 across the UAE, as compared to the past three years, the Ministry of Interior announced today.

Field efforts in combating crime, offering protection for victims and witnesses of human trafficking and stringent laws, policies and procedures in tracking down and capturing offenders are some of the ministry’s Human Rights Department’s biggest responsibilities.

Additionally, the ministry has set up a 2014-2016 plan to make the UAE one of the best countries worldwide in providing safety and protection for victims of human trafficking.

Brigadier Ahmad Mohammad Nakhira, Director of the Human Rights Department and Head of the Committee to Combat Human Trafficking, said that campaigns have also played a major role towards this achievement and so have international agreements, training sessions, workshops and a higher level of awareness among the public.

In fact, the ministry’s Human Rights Department has signed 33 agreements, 12 Memorandums of Understanding with other countries and 20 projects on human rights with a focus on human trafficking.

Meanwhile, Colonel Mohammad Ali Al Shehi, Deputy Head of the Human Rights Department, stated that an eight-part reference model on trafficking has been launched.

The guide comprises information on human trafficking, specifically about UAE laws and legislations, mechanisms used in fighting and combating human trafficking, preventive measures that can be taken, catching criminals, victim protection and support, international cooperation, building local capabilities and other supplements.

Brig Nakhira highlighted the fact that the UAE considers human trafficking the most dangerous of organised crimes which can threaten the safety and stability of a country’s society. It is also the ugliest practice against humanity due to the physical, mental and emotional disabilities it can leave victims with, the official added.

In 2012, Joy Ngozi Ezeilo, United National Special Rapporteur on trafficking, praised the UAE’s efforts in fighting this phenomenon during a visit to the country.