The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development Continues Its Efforts to Combat Human Trafficking

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development continues its efforts to combat human trafficking and enhance compliance with labor market regulations, in line with its responsibility to protect the rights of workers and employers. This comes in conjunction with the World Day Against Human Trafficking, observed on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, which was designated by the United Nations General Assembly as a day to raise awareness of this crime, highlight the suffering of victims, and promote their rights and protection.

On this occasion, His Excellency Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, Engineer Ahmed bin Suleiman Al-Rajhi, affirmed the wise leadership's commitment to respecting human dignity and preserving the honor of every individual living in the Kingdom. He pointed out that human trafficking is a violation of human rights and a threat to human dignity and explained that the Kingdom has taken numerous initiatives and preventive measures to combat human trafficking, starting with enacting strict legislation and making every effort to protect society from this crime.

His Excellency Al-Rajhi highlighted the importance of enhancing international and regional cooperation, exchanging information and expertise, supporting initiatives aimed at preventing and eliminating this crime, and working collectively to increase public awareness of the dangers of human trafficking and the importance of prevention.

In turn, His Excellency Dr. Abdullah bin Nasser Abu Thnein, Deputy Minister of Human Resources and Social Development for Labor, explained that the Ministry, through its membership in the Anti-Human Trafficking Committee at the Human Rights Commission, has developed awareness and training programs aimed at increasing public knowledge among citizens and residents about the risks associated with practices leading to human trafficking and methods for combating it. This includes enacting legislation and policies related to the contractual rights of workers in the Saudi labor market and protecting them from illegal practices such as human trafficking, forced labor, and other negative practices. He noted that the Ministry has launched several programs, initiatives, and workshops aimed at reducing human trafficking crimes, including campaigns to raise awareness about the rights and duties of workers in establishments and domestic workers, in collaboration with commercial chambers and private sector entities across the Kingdom, and participation of the Ministry's regulatory teams in joint field campaigns to combat human trafficking. Additionally, the Ministry has launched the "Improving Contractual Relationships" initiative, the "Contract Documentation Program," and other programs and initiatives to support compliance and improve the work environment.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development urges everyone to report any suspected indicators of human trafficking and to contact the Ministry through official channels to take necessary actions.