Many officials in Saudi Arabia are committed to fighting against human trafficking and enforcing labour laws. But at a closer look, these efforts feel more like a surface-level declaration than a genuine action. 30 July was the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. This day is also observed globally by the United Nations.
On this day, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development pays special attention to these complexities. The main purpose of this day is to raise awareness of human trafficking. Also, it aims to highlight the victims suffering and push for their rights. The main focus on this day is on the question of how to protect children. However, despite Minister Ahmed Al-Rajhi’s statements about Saudi leadership’s commitment to human dignity, the country still violated human rights in the same way. The rhetoric doesn’t always match the reality, and Saudi Arabia’s actions in truly addressing these issues remain questionable.
The severe violation of human rights and human dignity is done through human trafficking. It is the responsibility of the leaders of Saudi Arabia to address this crime and introduce laws that strongly oppose this issue. Also it is important to launch different programs that raise public awareness. These measures show the country’s commitment to addressing the issue.
Al-Rajhi also said that international and regional cooperation is required in order to fight against this crime. According to him, sharing information is the best way to protect people from human trafficking. Also working together helps to educate people about the dangers involved. Real impact is only possible if international collaboration in this work.
The ministry has introduced various programs to inform citizens and residents about the risks associated with activities that lead to human trafficking. These efforts also encourage taking concrete actions to combat it. Saudi Arabia has enacted laws specifically designed to protect workers’ rights under contracts and is actively working against illegal practices like forced labour. However, ongoing efforts and global cooperation are needed to effectively tackle human trafficking on a larger scale.
With the passage of time, taking strong action against this crime is necessary. Many officials claim that Islamic principles protect human dignity and prohibit exploitation but still cases of human trafficking occur. The government says it is committed to fighting this crime, but more must be done. According to Authorities, people should inform them when they observe any suspected case. However, without stronger enforcement and better protection for victims, these promises fall short.
Saudi Arabia’s membership in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) includes a commitment to banning slavery, forced labour, and human trafficking, especially involving women and children. While Article 3 of the GCC Human Rights Declaration supports this, the reality on the ground suggests that Saudi Arabia isn’t doing enough to live up to these standards. To truly combat human trafficking, Saudi Arabia must ensure that laws are enforced and that victims are supported, not just make promises. The country should lead by example in the GCC by taking more decisive steps to eliminate this serious issue.
The GCC is committed to fighting against human trafficking and also other border crimes. Back to 2006, when the 27th meeting was held. At that time, the GCC Supreme Court took a big step by adopting the Abu Dhabi Document. This document develops laws that save all GCC countries from human trafficking, including Saudi Arabia.
The main purpose of this law is to stop all kinds of human trafficking. It includes crimes like, prostitution, sexual assault, forced labor, slavery, organ removal, and trafficking. It also aims to protect people and end all of these abuses.
Albudaiwi pointed out that international efforts alone are not enough to solve this problem. To really fight human trafficking, countries need to work together well and follow the best practices. Without this teamwork and coordination, the fight against human trafficking will struggle to succeed.