Human trafficking is a heinous crime that continues to inflict untold suffering on vulnerable individuals worldwide. In any given year, the International Labor Organization estimates, conservatively, some 25 million people are victims of human trafficking and of those more than 70 percent are women and girls, trafficked for sexual exploitation and forced labor.
As we observed the UN’s World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on July 30, we must all recognize the gravity and urgency of this issue and reaffirm our commitment to eradicating it from our societies.
Traffickers often prey on migrants who seek a better life, luring them with false promises of lucrative opportunities. We cannot stand idly by as these criminals ruin the lives of innocent people, stripping them of their dignity, basic human rights and freedom.
Human trafficking is an international issue that requires an international response. It is crucial for all countries, including Saudi Arabia, to step up efforts to ensure safe and regulated migration processes and provide support to those in need. That is why the Kingdom is fully committed to upholding the rule of law and promoting international cooperation in the fight against human trafficking.
In 2021 the Kingdom launched the Labor Reform Initiative, ushering in a new era of historic labor reforms and offering greater freedom to expatriate workers in the country. The LRI introduced free mobility for workers between jobs in the private sector and made it possible for them to leave the country without their employer’s consent.
Similarly, this year the Kingdom updated its rules to make it easier for domestic workers to transfer their services to a new employer without the consent of their present one. This hugely important turning point protects the rights of millions of workers in Saudi Arabia and strengthens legal frameworks addressing trafficking and forced labor.
The fight against human trafficking demands collective action from governments, civil society and individuals alike. We must all play our part in raising awareness, fostering preventive measures and providing assistance to survivors.
Alongside this, key labor reforms have sought to improve working conditions and job security and safeguard employee rights. These include measures such as stricter enforcement of labor laws, setting up a wage protection system and enhancing occupational health and safety regulations. These reforms are aligned with the Vision 2030 objective of improving the living conditions of workers, playing a crucial role in introducing positive changes in the labor market and contributing to combating the crime of trafficking in persons.
Moreover, we have established a special division and committee to deal with the varied issues of human trafficking. Their services are numerous, including protection units to follow up cases, providing healthcare to victims and hiring lawyers to represent workers.
In addition to implementing labor reforms, Saudi Arabia actively engages in global efforts to combat human trafficking. It works closely with international organizations and other countries to share information and best practices, aiming to build a robust and coordinated response against traffickers. Through diplomatic channels, the Kingdom advocates for the adoption of stronger laws and enforcement mechanisms to hold traffickers accountable and protect victims.
The remarkable strides the Kingdom has achieved on this front have generated notable recognition globally, reflecting our substantial progress in combating human trafficking. This acknowledgment underscores the commitment of the Kingdom to upholding the rule of law and promoting international cooperation in this critical endeavor.
While strengthening legal frameworks is essential, we must also prioritize the protection and support of trafficking victims. Our nation strives to provide meaningful assistance, ensuring access to justice and remedies for those affected by this crime.
The fight against human trafficking demands collective action from governments, civil society and individuals alike. We must all play our part in raising awareness, fostering preventive measures and providing assistance to survivors.
• Sattam bin Amer Al-Harbi is the deputy minister for control and development of work environment at the Ministry for Human Resources and Social Development.