KUWAIT: Assistant Foreign Minister for Human Rights Affairs, Ambassador Sheikha Jawaher Ibrahim Al-Duaij Al-Sabah, affirmed that combating human trafficking and safeguarding victims remains a strategic priority, reflecting Kuwait’s commitment to its humanitarian values and international obligations. Her remarks came following a symposium organized by the Human Rights Affairs Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under the title, “The Role of the Permanent National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling.” The event was attended by representatives of relevant national bodies, ministry staff and Kuwaiti diplomatic missions in labor-exporting countries.
Sheikha Jawaher highlighted that the symposium aligns with Kuwait’s New Kuwait 2035 development plan, which aims to build a diversified and sustainable economy, develop human capital, enhance justice and governance, and transform Kuwait into a global financial and commercial hub. It also complements the National Strategy for Combating Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling (2025–2028), which focuses on strengthening prevention, protection and accountability measures, developing a national referral system, enhancing law enforcement capabilities, improving coordination and data collection, and fostering international cooperation and community awareness.
She commended the joint efforts of participating bodies, noting that the Ministry of Justice presented the legal and national framework for combating human trafficking and the national referral system. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the role of Kuwaiti diplomacy as the first line of defense in monitoring cases and promptly referring them to competent authorities. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Interior highlighted its investigative efforts, prosecution of cross-border criminal networks and coordination with relevant authorities to protect victims. The Public Authority of Manpower outlined labor inspection procedures, awareness campaigns, and measures to safeguard workers’ rights, while the Public Prosecution detailed investigation and prosecution mechanisms to ensure victims’ protection.
Sheikha Jawaher also praised the contribution of Kuwaiti diplomatic missions in labor-exporting countries, noting active participation by missions in Manila, New Delhi and Washington D.C., whose interventions reflected practical experience in addressing labor issues and combating trafficking at the international level. She reiterated Kuwait’s ongoing commitment to strengthening institutional cooperation, developing national capabilities and collaborating with regional and international partners in the fight against human trafficking. — KUNA
