Foreign Minister: Bahrain’s legislative reforms consolidate leadership in combating human trafficking
Manama, Sep. 30 (BNA): Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the National Human Rights Committee, confirmed that the Kingdom of Bahrain will continue to consolidate its advanced position as a regional and global model in safeguarding human rights and dignity and combating human trafficking. He emphasised that this commitment is pursued through a comprehensive approach grounded in firm values, modern legislation and practices, and effective institutions, under the leadership and vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.
Dr. Al Zayani extended his congratulations to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and to His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, on the occasion of Bahrain maintaining its leading position in the first global tier in combating trafficking in persons, according to the US State Department report for the eighth consecutive year. He underlined that this reflects the Kingdom’s qualitative achievements in enhancing the human rights system and upholding the values of justice and the rule of law.
The Foreign Minister commended the efforts of the National Committee for Combating Trafficking in Persons, carried out in partnership among the Ministries of Interior, Foreign Affairs, Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments, Labour, Social Development, Information, the National Communication Centre, and the Labour Market Regulatory Authority. He noted its cooperation with the legislative and judicial authorities, human rights institutions, civil society, the accredited diplomatic and consular missions, as well as its exchange of expertise with the International Organisation for Migration and other relevant international and regional organisations.
He added that Bahrain’s classification in the first tier for the eighth consecutive year is a direct reflection of its sustained successes in implementing advanced legislation, the most notable being Law No. (1) of 2008 on Combating Trafficking in Persons, the Law on Restorative Justice for Children, and labour market regulations. These are accompanied by preventive and protective measures, particularly for priority groups, consolidating justice, fairness, and transparency, and accelerating litigation through the establishment of the region’s first specialised prosecution and court. Also established are a centre for the protection of migrant workers, advanced media and training programmes to raise awareness and build the capacities of security, health, and judicial cadres, as well as a regional centre for training and capacity building in combating trafficking in persons.
Dr. Al Zayani reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment to continuing its efforts to enhance the national response to trafficking in persons, through legislative frameworks and strategic initiatives consistent with the National Human Rights Plan (2022–2026). These contribute to building a safe and fair work environment, guarantees for rights, and reflect Bahrain’s enlightened and leading role in the human rights and humanitarian field, in alignment with the best international standards and practices.
