An Emirati delegation participated in the second international workshop in Turkmenistan focused on ways to enforce law and strengthen judicial cooperation to curb the issue of human trafficking.
The delegation headed by Dr. Saeed Al Ghufli, Executive Director of the Ministry of State for Federal National Council Affairs (MSFNCA) included representatives of the Federal Public Prosecution, Dubai and Abu Dhabi Police as well as officials from the Dubai and Abu Dhabi Prosecution authorities and the Ministry of Interior.
The workshop was sponsored by UN representatives concerned with crime and drugs in cooperation with the Turkmenistan government, and was attended by officials from France, Azerbaijan, Italy, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Russia, Thailand, Turkey, USA, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and the UAE.
Dr. Saeed Al Ghufli said: “Our participation is crucial in strengthening international initiatives aimed at addressing human trafficking crimes. We are committed to showcasing our country’s efforts implemented at multiple levels to address the issue. We explained the UAE’s initiatives to protect victims of the crime and it was clear that the Emirates has been leading the way in supporting the affected people through proper laws and legislations as well as building shelters.â€
He added: “We have noticed a keen interest from countries to enforce agreements and international treaties have been signed in this regard. These international meetings help us to strengthen relationships and build ties with global institutions, and discuss best solutions for data exchange and judicial cooperation. They also provide us the platform to identify opportunities offered by renowned organizations and benefit from training activities that will help us scale up our performance in fighting human trafficking.”
The workshop discussed the obstacles that undermine cooperation between countries on addressing human trafficking. The crime situation in Central Asia was highlighted as officials shared their experience on incrimination mechanisms and law enforcement. The UAE delegation showcased the country’s efforts in fighting human trafficking as well as the National Committee’s strategy and components of the Federal law no. 51 for 2006 regarding fighting the crime.
Also on protecting victims and witnesses of human trafficking crimes, the UAE explained the various initiatives undertaken by shelters in different regions and the nature of assistance provided to the affected individuals. The workshop also discussed communication channels regarding cooperation on criminal cases and judicial assistance as well as data collection. The UAE delegation highlighted the judicial assistance system and data exchange mechanisms set according to agreements sealed with a number of countries.
