The Fund for Supporting Victims of Human Trafficking, launched by the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking, has emerged as a pivotal force in extending support to the victims of exploitation and coercive practices, and has brought solace to several people who were unfortunate victims of human trafficking.

His excellency Dr. Anwar Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Minister of State for Federal National Council Affairs, and Chairman of the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking, said that the United Arab Emirates is one of the first countries to take concerted measures against human trafficking, raising the issue at several international forums and calling for international cooperation to curb this menace.

The UAE is one of the most active countries globally in fighting human trafficking crimes and in extending support to the victims. Today, we serve as a model in taking firm action to deal with human trafficking. The efforts of the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking are focused on studying the various aspects involved in human trafficking and developing legislations to fight against human trafficking. Its goal is to promote and ensure necessary protection for the victims in accordance with international standards. We also aim to increase the coordination of government entities concerned with the issues of human trafficking and take timely follow-up action to achieve tangible results in dealing with human trafficking.

HE Dr. Gargash explained that setting up the fund to support victims of human trafficking is a leading move by the UAE that reflects the nations strong moral and humanitarian values to secure the protection of people and extend support to the victims. The UAE also places emphasis on imposing sanctions on those who violate the laws and legislation in this regard, he added.

HE Dr. Gargash explained that the fund examines the applications and reports from various centres in the UAE as well as the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children, to provide financial support to human trafficking victims in accordance with clear procedures. It aims to help the victims to overcome the problems they experience as a result of coercive and exploitative practices that they have been subjected. The fund has already assisted 14 people.

He thanked to those who contribute to support the Fund including charities, national and social organisations and businessmen. This highlights the cooperation of the UAE community to counter and eradicate human trafficking in the UAE. The UAE believes that it is a matter of great priority to help the oppressed and weak people and to restore their rights and dignity.

The UAE government aims to reduce the negative and inhuman effects of human trafficking and has adopted a strategy defined by five pillars: prevention and protection, prosecution, punishment, victim protection and strengthen international cooperation. It has also signed partnerships with many countries globally as part of its efforts to put an end to the practice of human trafficking and prevent its adverse effects on the victims and the community in general.

The National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking has established The Fund of Supporting Victims of Human Trafficking in cooperation with its strategic partners. Its mission is to provide financial support to the victims and help them in addressing their needs to facilitate a brighter future. It also highlights the importance that the Committee places in combating different types of human trafficking, and its commitment to strengthen work with the authorities and international organisations to eliminate the problem and uphold the rights and dignity of the humans.