Human trafficking is a serious crime that violates human rights and fundamental freedoms. The Protocol to Prevent, Suppress, and Punish Trafficking in Persons Supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime defines human trafficking as the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt of persons through various means including force, coercion, fraud, or deception for the purpose of exploitation. This exploitation can involve prostitution, forced labor, slavery, servitude, or organ removal. In Bahrain, human trafficking is considered a criminal offense with significant penalties including imprisonment and fines.
The Bahraini authorities, particularly the Directorate of Combating Human Trafficking and Protecting Public Morals, work diligently to combat human trafficking by collaborating with other relevant authorities such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Labor and Social Development, LMRA, NPRA, and other relevant bodies. They receive reports, exchange information, and actively investigate places where victims may be forced into prostitution. The Directorate also focuses on training and developing the skills of its personnel to detect potential victims by observing signs such as fear, depression, and physical injuries.
In addition to efforts to combat human trafficking domestically, Bahrain also engages with international organizations through participation in meetings, conferences, and seminars to address this global issue. Public awareness campaigns are launched using various media outlets and educational materials to educate the community about the dangers of human trafficking and how to recognize potential victims. The Directorate also provides victims with full protection, including a safe haven, health and psychological care, legal advice, fair compensation, and assistance with returning to their home countries if requested.
Victims of trafficking are given the necessary support and resources to rebuild their lives after experiencing exploitation. The Directorate ensures that victims are not only protected from further threats but also receive the care and assistance they need to recover physically and emotionally. Providing access to legal advice and support is crucial in empowering victims to seek justice and hold their traffickers accountable for the harm they have endured. By facilitating their return to their home countries, the Directorate aims to ensure that victims can safely reintegrate into their communities and move forward from the trauma they have experienced.
