Combating human trafficking — a collective responsibility 
Human trafficking remains a significant human rights issue worldwide. As we mark the 10th World Day Against Trafficking in Persons in 2024, it is a time to recognize our collective progress, but more importantly, to renew our commitment to eradicating this heinous crime.
This year's theme, “Leave No Child Behind in the Fight Against Human Trafficking,” underscores the urgent need to protect the most vulnerable — our children. Despite substantial progress, millions continue to fall victim to traffickers, exploiting their vulnerabilities for profit.
Children represent a significant proportion of trafficking victims globally, with girls being disproportionately affected. According to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, one in three victims of human trafficking is a child, and children are twice as likely to face violence during trafficking than adults. Regions such as sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa, and Latin America and the Caribbean bear a disproportionate burden, with children comprising 60 percent of detected trafficking victims.
Governments must enforce stringent anti-trafficking laws, ensuring both punishment for traffickers and protection for victims. National action plans and dedicated anti-trafficking units are crucial. In Saudi Arabia, significant reforms have been implemented, including the 2009 anti-trafficking law and enhanced penalties for trafficking crimes. Recent improvements also focus on better training for officials and strengthening victim support mechanisms. The Saudi government has increased efforts to prosecute trafficking crimes and seek adequate penalties for convicted traffickers through a robust legal framework.
Combating human trafficking requires coordinated international efforts. Countries must collaborate to dismantle trafficking networks through intelligence sharing, joint investigations, and mutual legal assistance. Organizations like the UN play a critical role in these efforts, providing a platform for cooperation and setting international standards for combating trafficking. The launch of the National Referral Mechanism in Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration and UNODC, is a significant step toward better coordination and protection for trafficking victims.
National action plans and dedicated anti-trafficking units are crucial. In Saudi Arabia, significant reforms have been implemented, including the 2009 anti-trafficking law and enhanced penalties for trafficking crimes.
Providing comprehensive support to victims is also essential. This includes legal assistance, medical care, psychological support and safe housing. Empowering victims to reintegrate into society helps prevent re-victimization.
Saudi Arabia has recently started putting into action the second phase of its project to boost efforts in protecting victims of human trafficking. This initiative, in partnership with UNODC and the IOM, was announced by Hala bint Mazyad Al-Tuwaijri, president of the Saudi Human Rights Commission and chair of the Committee to Combat Trafficking in Persons. During a seminar in Riyadh, local and international experts discussed challenges and global best practices in combating human trafficking. This seminar highlighted the importance of international cooperation and the need for new methods to quickly identify and assist trafficking victims while protecting their dignity.
Saudi Arabia’s efforts have led to its improved ranking in the US State Department’s Trafficking in Persons Report, moving from Tier 3 to Tier 2. This improvement reflects the effectiveness of Saudi Arabia’s reforms and its commitment to combating trafficking, but also demonstrates the importance of continued progress in this area. The Kingdom’s proactive approach, including training for frontline workers and the development of anonymous digital reporting services, demonstrates a comprehensive strategy to address and eradicate human trafficking.
Combating human trafficking is a collective responsibility. As we move forward in 2024, we must renew our commitment to eradicating this heinous crime, ensuring all individuals can live free from exploitation. By working together — governments, international organizations, the private sector and civil society — we can make a significant difference.
Our collective efforts will contribute to creating a world where everyone can live with dignity and freedom, free from the scourge of human trafficking.
- Sattam bin Amer Al-Harbi is the deputy minister for control and development of work environment at the Ministry for Human Resources and Social Development.
