GCC's Jassim Albudaiwi Emphasises Commitment To Combat Human Trafficking In The Middle East

The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Jassim Albudaiwi, emphasised the significant recognition received by the Governmental Forum to Combat Human Trafficking in the Middle East. This forum has been acknowledged both regionally and internationally for the GCC countries' efforts. Since its inception, it has played a crucial role in developing a unified GCC strategy to tackle human trafficking, considering the region's specific economic and geographic traits.

Albudaiwi made these remarks during his address at the sixth Governmental Forum to Combat Human Trafficking in the Middle East for 2025, held in Kuwait. The event was attended by Kuwait's Minister of Justice, Counselor Nasser Al-Sumait, along with other ministers and senior representatives from member states. Delegates from the GCC Secretariat, Arab League, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and U.S. Department of State were also present.

Albudaiwi highlighted that national laws have been enacted to criminalise human trafficking while establishing clear mechanisms for victim protection and offender prosecution. These measures include forming national committees and agencies, creating shelters, hotlines, and national referral systems for potential victims. Additionally, specialised training is provided for security and judicial personnel.

He pointed out regulatory reforms in labour markets through updated labour legislation. There is also expanded cooperation with organisations like UNODC, International Organization for Migration, and International Labour Organization to implement joint preventive and awareness programs.

The forum has helped shape a unified vision to combat human trafficking tailored to the region's unique challenges. These challenges include modern technologies' use and transnational organised crime networks. Albudaiwi stressed that addressing these issues requires united efforts among countries to enhance coordination and sustain collective action.

In his concluding remarks, Albudaiwi urged countries to work together on shared challenges. He called for enhanced coordination mainly in combating transnational crimes and protecting vulnerable groups such as women, children, and migrants.

Commitment to Justice and Human Rights

Albudaiwi reaffirmed the GCC's ongoing commitment to fighting human trafficking in all its forms. He emphasised advancing legislative frameworks and enhancing regional cooperation to ensure victim protection, offender accountability, justice promotion, and human rights adherence.

With inputs from SPA