Manama: Ahmed bin Salman Al Musallam, Speaker of the Council of Representatives, emphasised that the Kingdom of Bahrain holds a comprehensive legislative system and a leading human rights framework for combating human trafficking. He noted that the Kingdom holds a distinguished position and employs modern measures and initiatives, making it a unique regional and international model.
According to Bahrain News Agency, this progress is attributed to the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the support and oversight of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. On World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the Speaker noted that Bahrain consistently underscores its dedication to protecting human rights and combating human trafficking. This commitment stems from national principles and humanitarian values, which have enabled the Kingdom to maintain Tier 1 status in the US Department of State's Trafficking in Persons Report for consecutive years, earning widespread Arab, regional, and international acclaim.
Al Musallam highlighted that Bahrain's commendable human rights record across all areas has enhanced greater human rights awareness and facilitated numerous projects and initiatives in combating human trafficking. These align with the National Human Rights Plan and global standards, guided by His Majesty the King's humanitarian approach. He added that parliamentary diplomacy actively showcases Bahrain's achievements, projects, and programmes in this field. This includes highlighting the modern measures implemented, such as establishing the Expatriate Labour Protection and Support Centre, enhancing labour market reforms through the Wage Protection System, and combating forced labour.
The Speaker expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the National Committee for Combating Trafficking in Persons and its specialised programmes aimed at preventing and combating human trafficking. He also noted its cooperation with state agencies in protecting victims, providing necessary assistance, and promoting a culture of human rights, tolerance, coexistence, and safeguarding human dignity for all.
He commended the strategic partnership between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Information, the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Waqf, the Ministry of Labour, and the Ministry of Social Development, along with the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA). Al Musallam also commended their collaboration with the Judiciary, represented by the Supreme Judicial Council and the Human Trafficking Prosecution, as well as human rights institutions and civil society, in the fight against human trafficking.