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HRC and IOM sign anti-human-trafficking project agreement

HRC and IOM sign anti-human-trafficking project agreement

Riyadh is the site of a new agreement between the Saudi Human Rights Commission (HRC) and the UN International Organization for Migration (IOM) to implement the third phase of a project to enhance mechanisms for combating human trafficking in Saudi Arabia.

According to SPA, the agreement aims to strengthen the existing partnership, build on previous progress, and address emerging challenges related to human-trafficking crimes.

The project includes a program to support victims, facilitate voluntary return and reintegration, and develop tools to prevent exploitation in supply chains. It also focuses on national capacity-building programs, enhancing monitoring mechanisms, and improving data collection. Additionally, the agreement seeks to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the joint victim assistance fund.

Dr. Hala bint Mazyed Altuwaijri, President of the HRC and Chairwoman of the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking, stated that the agreement prioritizes protection and support for victims. She noted that partnerships with international organizations help unify response efforts through a comprehensive approach and leverage international practices.

IOM Director-General Amy Pope stated that the third phase reflects mutual trust and close cooperation between the two sides to enhance human rights and combat human trafficking, which will strengthen institutional capacities.

What are the primary goals of the third phase of the HRC and IOM project? The third phase of the project aims to enhance mechanisms for combating human trafficking in Saudi Arabia by addressing emerging challenges and building on progress from previous phases. It seeks to strengthen the partnership between the Saudi Human Rights Commission and the UN International Organization for Migration to unify response efforts through a comprehensive approach.

What specific support programs are included in the agreement? The agreement includes a program dedicated to supporting human-trafficking victims, which facilitates their voluntary return and reintegration. Additionally, the project focuses on developing tools to prevent potential exploitation within supply chains and implementing national capacity-building programs in this field.

How will the agreement improve the management of anti-trafficking efforts? The agreement focuses on enhancing monitoring mechanisms and improving data collection to better track human trafficking. It also aims to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the joint victim assistance fund while strengthening institutional capacities through the collaboration between the HRC and IOM.