Kuwait renews anti-trafficking commitment on World Day Against Trafficking in Persons
Kuwait praised for tough laws and national strategy to combat human trafficking; 70% of human trafficking victims are women and teenage girls, says Bureau
Kuwait’s National Human Rights Bureau has reiterated its strong commitment to promoting a culture of human rights and raising public awareness on critical issues, particularly the grave crime of human trafficking, which it described as one of the most severe violations globally.
In a statement released to mark the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons (July 30), the Bureau stressed the importance of shedding light on the suffering of victims—many of whom face exploitation in forms such as forced labor, organized begging, and coerced recruitment.
Citing international statistics, the Bureau noted that women and girls make up over 70% of human trafficking victims, while children remain among the most vulnerable to such exploitation, reports Al-Jarida daily.
As part of its annual work plan, the Bureau announced the launch of a joint awareness workshop in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and the Permanent National Committee for Combating Trafficking in Persons and Smuggling of Migrants.
The workshop is scheduled to be held at the Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Academy for Security Sciences and will bring together representatives from various governmental bodies, civil society organizations, and international partners.
Its goal is to raise awareness about the realities of human trafficking and to highlight Kuwait’s comprehensive efforts to tackle the issue.
The Bureau praised Kuwait’s longstanding dedication to combating trafficking, including its ratification of the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and the establishment of the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking. Key milestones in Kuwait’s fight include the launch of a national strategy, enactment of strict laws against trafficking and smuggling, enhanced penalties for residency-related trafficking, as well as protective measures for victims and witnesses.
The Bureau called for sustained support of both governmental and grassroots initiatives, emphasizing the importance of a preventive approach and the integration of institutional and civil society roles to safeguard human dignity. It concluded by underscoring Kuwait’s determination to remain a regional and international leader in the fight against human trafficking.
