Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
The United Arab Emirates took part in the 15th Meeting of the Working Group on Trafficking in Persons, held in Vienna under the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crime. The gathering aimed to review progress, share experiences, and develop stronger global actions to stop human trafficking and protect victims.
UAE Delegation Led by Judge Abdul Rahman Al Blooshi
The UAE delegation was led by Judge Abdul Rahman Murad Al Blooshi, Deputy Chairman of the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking. The team included representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, and the Federal Public Prosecution. Their joint participation reflected the UAE’s unified national effort to prevent and respond to trafficking crimes.
UN Protocol on Human Trafficking Reviewed
The meeting reviewed the implementation of the United Nations Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, especially Women and Children. This protocol is one of the key global tools to combat organised crime and protect vulnerable groups. Member states discussed current challenges and shared best practices to strengthen laws, improve investigation systems, and ensure the rights and safety of victims.
Focus on Evidence and Investigation Challenges
A major focus of the meeting was the challenge of collecting and using evidence in human trafficking cases. Officials and experts discussed the difficulties of depending mainly on victim testimonies, as such evidence can be limited or hard to obtain. They also highlighted the need to improve ways to collect physical and digital evidence that can support stronger prosecutions and deliver justice for victims.
UAE’s Efforts to Tackle Digital Crime
Judge Al Blooshi explained how the UAE has adapted its laws to meet the new challenges of digital crime. He said that national legislation has been updated to give digital evidence the same legal value as physical evidence. This allows investigators and courts to handle online cases more effectively. These legal changes help the UAE address the growing use of the internet and technology in human trafficking activities.
Launch of Smart System for Victim Referrals
The UAE also introduced its national smart system for referring victims of human trafficking. This advanced system uses artificial intelligence to quickly identify victims and connect them with the right authorities for help. It also improves coordination between national institutions to ensure that victims receive timely protection, care, and rehabilitation services.
Commitment to Victim Protection and Support
During the meeting, the UAE delegation reaffirmed that the protection of victims remains a national priority. Through coordinated efforts between government bodies, the UAE provides victims with legal aid, healthcare, shelter, and psychological support. The new referral system strengthens this process by making victim identification and response faster and more effective.
Cooperation with International Partners
The UAE’s participation at the Vienna meeting also showed its strong commitment to global cooperation. The country continues to work with the United Nations and other nations to share expertise, support policy development, and promote justice and human rights. The UAE’s experience in using modern technologies to fight trafficking was recognised as an important model for others.
UAE’s Ongoing Role in Global Anti-Trafficking Efforts
Through its active engagement in international dialogues and reforms, the UAE remains dedicated to combating human trafficking in all its forms. By combining updated laws, digital tools, and humanitarian support systems, the country is building a more effective framework to fight exploitation and ensure that victims receive care and justice.
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