MUSCAT : Oman continues its relentless efforts to combat human trafficking, being among the first countries to implement specialized legislation, including the Anti-Human Trafficking Law.

Statistics from the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking indicate that in the past year, 95 reports were registered, 18 cases were identified, 38 individuals were prosecuted, six cases remain under investigation, and 55 accused were involved, with three cases resulting in convictions.

H.E. Sheikh Humaid bin Ali Al Maani, Head of the International Affairs Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs told Oman News Agency that Oman’s commitment to promoting human rights and addressing crimes against human dignity is rooted not only in international obligations but also in religious principles and national values.

“Oman’s interest in promoting a culture of human rights and raising awareness of challenges and crimes affecting human dignity stems from our religious commitment and national duty rooted in Omani values and identity,” Sheikh Al Maani stated.

Oman has enacted national laws to combat human trafficking and has ratified numerous international agreements, charters, instruments, and protocols aimed at preventing the exploitation of individuals, particularly women and children. These agreements are integrated into local laws to ensure their effective implementation.
Sheikh Al Maani highlighted the severity of human trafficking, describing it as a major illegal trade that threatens human security and necessitates international cooperation and a clear strategy to combat it. He noted that human trafficking is incompatible with human nature and the teachings of Islamic law, which sanctify the body and prohibit its abuse.

The National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking in Oman plays a vital role in reducing this phenomenon and providing protection and assistance to victims. The committee operates Dar Al-Wifaq, a shelter offering psychological, social, health, legal, and other services to victims.

The National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking (2024-2026) has been developed to enhance Oman’s efforts in preventing, suppressing, and punishing human trafficking and providing necessary protection for victims.

To raise community awareness, the National Committee launched a national campaign titled ‘Human’ last year, featuring multilingual awareness messages distributed through various media, including billboards, digital screens at Muscat and Salalah airports, websites, social media platforms, events, lectures, workshops, articles, and press releases.

In April, Oman hosted the fifth session of the Government Forum to Combat Trafficking in Persons in the Middle East, attended by high-level representatives and regional and international organizations.

Oman is also working on a new anti-human trafficking law, aligned with global developments in the crime, involving international and local experts in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.

Oman’s achievements include joining the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, and the Arab Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, reflecting its commitment to human rights protection.

The Basic Law of the State enshrines the rights to life, dignity, and security for every individual, ensuring protection for citizens and residents alike. A national committee was formed to develop a comprehensive plan to combat human trafficking, provide care and rehabilitation for victims, and integrate them into society.

The National Committee comprises representatives from various government agencies, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Public Prosecution, Royal Oman Police, Supreme Court, Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Social Development, Ministry of Labour, Ministry of Information, Oman Human Rights Commission, Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the General Federation of Oman Workers.

Hotlines for reporting human trafficking crimes operate 24/7 in Arabic and English, with reports accepted in 14 languages via the committee’s website. The Royal Oman Police, Public Prosecution, Ministry of Labour, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs each have specialized offices to effectively combat human trafficking.

Efforts include a rapid intervention team, established in 2019, to coordinate and address cases promptly. Public prosecutors and liaison officers are assigned in each governorate, with a dedicated department within the Royal Oman Police.

The Ministry of Labour’s Anti-Human Trafficking Department investigates complaints, provides victim care, and conducts awareness campaigns. The Ministry of Social Development, through the General Directorate of Family Development, offers psychological, social, and health support to victims at Dar Al-Wefaq.

Oman’s comprehensive approach, involving government and international cooperation, underscores its dedication to eradicating human trafficking and upholding human rights for all.

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