Kuwait strengthens fight against human trafficking

The Vice-Chair of the National Standing Committee to Combat Trafficking in Persons and Smuggling of Migrants, Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Justice, Awatif Al-Sanad, spoke of the committee’s firm support for the measures being implemented by relevant authorities to tackle human trafficking crimes.

These efforts are focused on incidents involving 115 victims and 48 defendants currently under investigation by the Public Prosecution.

Al-Sanad highlighted that these measures form a cornerstone of Kuwait’s National Strategy to Combat Trafficking in Persons. They align with international standards aimed at protecting victims, strengthening accountability, and enhancing preventive mechanisms. “These initiatives reflect the state’s commitment to establishing an effective system to combat human trafficking and to ensuring the protection of vulnerable groups,” she stated.

The National Standing Committee also emphasized its ongoing support for enhancing coordination and follow-up mechanisms among all relevant authorities. This approach ensures the coherence of national efforts and strengthens the capacity of institutions to fulfill their roles in combating trafficking and smuggling, reports Al-Rai daily.

The Public Prosecution has announced the formation of specialized investigation teams drawn from the Capital Governorate Prosecution and the Anti-Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling Department.

These teams are tasked with examining cases of human trafficking and money laundering, collecting evidence, hearing statements, and implementing protective measures for victims in coordination with assisting authorities.

Investigations have already begun into nine cases related to human trafficking and money laundering. The findings reveal a troubling exploitation of workers in cooperative societies, where victims were compelled to pay daily fees in exchange for performing their work while being denied legally established rights.

To date, authorities have interviewed 115 victims and interrogated 48 defendants, with investigations continuing to uncover further details and determine necessary legal actions.

Al-Sanad underlined that such measures are part of Kuwait’s broader commitment to global standards in preventing human trafficking, ensuring victim protection, and holding perpetrators accountable. “This is a vital step toward safeguarding the rights and dignity of all workers and vulnerable individuals in the country,” she added.

The Public Prosecution and the National Standing Committee reaffirmed that combating human trafficking is a sustained priority, requiring collaboration across government agencies, civil society, and international partners to create a safer, more just environment.