Experts Discuss Saudi Arabia's Anti-Human Trafficking Policies at Riyadh Symposium
Experts gathered at a symposium in Riyadh, titled "Enhancing Cooperation in Combating Trafficking in Persons," to discuss Saudi Arabia's efforts to combat human trafficking.
Attendees from various fields reviewed anti-human trafficking policies, raised awareness of common patterns and recent developments, and discussed effective means of protection and prevention.
Hala Al-Tuwaijri, president of the Human Rights Commission, emphasized the importance of exchanging experiences and fostering coordination to combat human trafficking.
During a panel discussion, Al-Tuwaijri warned that crises and conflicts around the world provide opportunities for traffickers to exploit vulnerable individuals.
Human trafficking is a global issue that includes sex trafficking, forced labor, and domestic servitude, often affecting women and children.
Saudi Arabia's Al-Tuwaijri emphasized the need for international cooperation to protect vulnerable populations and uphold human rights.
Those found guilty of human trafficking in Saudi Arabia face up to 15 years in prison, fines of up to SR1 million, or both.
Al-Tuwaijri stressed the importance of strengthening international efforts against human trafficking through comprehensive legislation and increased case detection.
In 2023, anti-human trafficking organizations in Saudi Arabia conducted 41 training programs to raise awareness and provide training on victim identification, interviewing techniques, and evidence collection.
Abdullah Abu Thunin, Saudi Arabia's vice minister of human resources and social development, announced that the country is taking steps to combat human trafficking through a national plan.
The strategy includes prevention, protection and assistance, prosecution, and cooperation.
The ministry has launched programs like the authenticated contracts program and wage protection program to improve contractual relationships and ensure employers pay wages, resulting in over 7 million signed contracts.
The Friendly Settlement for Labor Disputes program achieved a 77% reconciliation rate.
These initiatives have led to increased compliance rates in the Kingdom.
A Riyadh symposium was attended by several Saudi Arabian government agencies, such as the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, Public Prosecution, Human Rights Commission, and National Committee to Combat Trafficking.
International organizations including UN International Children’s Emergency Fund, UN Office on Drugs and Crime, and UN Resident Coordinator Office also participated.