Bahrain’s continued Tier 1 ranking in the US Department of State’s Trafficking in Persons Report for the ninth consecutive year received international praise at the Government Forum on Combating Trafficking in Persons in the Middle East, which wraps up today.
The event is organised by the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) in co-ordination with the National Committee to Combat Trafficking in Persons.
Addressing the forum, US Ambassador Stephanie Hallett said Bahrain’s success in maintaining this ranking reflected significant progress and the combined efforts of all concerned parties to protect people and potential victims of human trafficking.
Dr Hatem Ali, Regional Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, said Bahrain had established a successful model for protection through specialised bodies, including the National Committee to Combat Trafficking in Persons and the LMRA, as well as its partnership with the private sector. He also praised the establishment of the Awareness and Prevention Centre and shelters, and highlighted Bapco’s experience in protecting workers.
Yesterday’s sessions spotlighted Bahrain’s experience in combating human trafficking and highlighted success of the labour market programmes in protecting workers.
Irregular labour has declined in Bahrain by up to 69 per cent, marking a milestone and a key indicator of the success of the Registered Worker Programme launched by the LMRA, it was revealed.
Participants in the forum stressed that responsible media coverage should disclose information, raise public awareness and highlight deterrent measures against trafficking in persons offences, while respecting the victims’ privacy.
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