Kuwait, GCC tackle human trafficking
VIENNA: Assistant Foreign Minister for Human Rights Affairs Ambassador Sheikha Jawaher Ibrahim Al-Duaij Al-Sabah has reaffirmed Kuwait's unwavering commitment — alongside fellow Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states — to strengthening regional and international cooperation in the fight against trafficking in persons. This came during a speech delivered by Ambassador Sheikha Jawaher at a side event organized by GCC countries in partnership with the UN Advisory Committee on Combating Human Trafficking, held on the sidelines of the 34th session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Vienna.
Ambassador Sheikha Jawaher commended the constructive role played by the UN Advisory Committee in supporting collective Gulf efforts to address this transnational crime. She highlighted several key initiatives spearheaded by Kuwait to counter trafficking, notably the hosting of the Sixth Regional Government Forum on Combating Trafficking in Persons, the establishment of a shelter for male migrant workers, the creation of labour cities aimed at improving workplace conditions, and the launch of the National Strategy to Combat Trafficking in Persons and Smuggling of Migrants 2025–2028 under the slogan 'Towards Defense'.
Underscoring Kuwait's commitment to protecting rights and promoting justice, Sheikha Jawaher also reviewed the country's legal advancements, including the implementation of Law No (91) of 2013 and Law No. (114) of 2024. She noted Kuwait's close cooperation with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), particularly in the areas of knowledge exchange, professional visits to shelters and correctional facilities, and capacity-building.
In light of evolving global challenges, the Ambassador called for enhanced collective action, advocating for the creation of a unified Gulf digital platform to align national strategies and streamline the exchange of information and best practices. Sheikha Jawaher also stressed the importance of active Gulf participation in the upcoming high-level meeting of the United Nations General Assembly next November, aimed at reviewing the Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons.
She underlined the necessity of addressing emerging threats, including the misuse of modern technologies and artificial intelligence in human trafficking activities. The Ambassador concluded by reaffirming the State of Kuwait's steadfast dedication to upholding human dignity, advancing justice, and working closely with regional and international partners to combat this cross-border crime. — KUNA
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