NEW YORK, Nov 24 (KUNA) -- Assistant Foreign Minister for Human Rights, Ambassador Sheikha Jawaher Al-Duaij Al-Sabah, affirmed Monday on Kuwait's unwavering commitment to combating human trafficking, based on the country's constitution and its principles, considering such crime a "flagrant violation" of human rights, and a threat to the security and stability of societies.
Remarks by Sheikha Jawaher was delivered before a high-level meeting of the UN General Assembly on the evaluation of the Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons.
Sheikha Jawaher Al-Sabah added that today's meeting represents "a crucial juncture for assessing the progress made in implementing the Global Plan of Action, and considering the remaining challenges, including child trafficking, forced labor, the link between trafficking and organized criminal groups, and the use of modern technologies and artificial intelligence in exploitation." She pointed out that persons with disabilities are also among the most vulnerable to this crime, stressing the need to develop more comprehensive protection mechanisms that take into account the circumstances of all targeted groups and ensure no exploitation under any circumstances.
Ambassador Sheikha Jawaher emphasized the country's commitment to aligning its national efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 8, and with its international obligations under the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and its protocols.
In the institutional framework, Sheikha Jawaher noted that Kuwait established the Permanent National Committee for Combating Trafficking in Persons and Smuggling of Migrants, which recently launched the National Strategy (2025-2028) entitled "Towards Protecting Rights and Promoting Justice." Such strategy aims to transition to an integrated approach based on early detection, institutional responsibility, victim protection, accountability, and ensuring no impunity, she underlined.
Sheikha Jawaher said that Kuwait has continued to strengthen protection mechanisms by activating the National Referral System, launching the electronic reporting system, and establishing specialized departments within the Public Prosecution and the Ministry of Interior.
Furthermore, Sheikha Jawaher noted that Kuwait established shelters for men and women that provide medical, psychological, and social services, serving as a practical model for dealing with potential victims. (end) ast.mb