Dr Gargash calls for more international cooperation to combat human trafficking

Several key topics were discussed, such as how to provide support to victims, as well as national strategies on how to combat human trafficking.

ABU DHABI // Focused international cooperation is needed to battle human trafficking, says Dr Anwar Gargash, chairman of the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking.

“The issue is one that all countries suffer from,” said Dr Gargash, also Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, at a committee meeting in Dubai on Tuesday.

“The UAE is working on combating these cases through international cooperation and effective contribution in all the research and studies that lead to the full guarantee of human rights.”

Other key topics discussed at the meeting included how to provide support to victims and the UAE’s strategy for confronting the issue.

Putting an end to trafficking requires the cooperation of all sectors and the UAE is playing its role in preventing this type of exploitation, said Dr Gargash.

The UN Office on Drugs and Crime has asked GCC countries to develop a partnership with the committee to tackle the issue.

The meeting also discussed financial aid for victims and collecting donations for a support fund.

Cases of human trafficking in the UAE fell by 60 per cent last year.

Foundations such as the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children and Ewa’a in Abu Dhabi provide rehabilitation and help for the victims.