Manama, Jan. 24 (BNA): The Labor Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) received a delegation from the National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking in the United Arab Emirates, headed by Abdul Rahman Murad Al Balushi, Vice Chairman of the UAE National Committee.
During the meeting, they reviewed means of cooperation and exchange of experiences in the field of enhancing the work environment and preserving the rights of both parties.
Labor Market Regulatory Authority officials briefed the delegation on Bahrain’s pioneering experience in combating human trafficking and supporting workers’ rights, pointing to the prominent initiatives and programs launched to enhance the kingdom’s efforts in this field.
The delegation was briefed on the role and objectives of the Expatriate Protection Center, which is the first comprehensive and specialized facility of its kind in the Middle East.
The center specializes in providing various types of preventive and legal counseling and services, as well as providing shelter for victims and potential victims of trafficking in line with international standards.
The Labor Market Regulatory Authority also presented its efforts in maintaining a safe and stable work environment that preserves the rights of all parties, in addition to providing guidance to workers and raising awareness.
The authority highlighted the three stages of protection, which are represented in the preventive role to educate workers about their rights and duties upon their arrival in the Kingdom, frequent preventive inspection visits to prevent vulnerable individuals from becoming victims of trafficking, and finally ensuring that all means of protection are available and accessible.
The role of the Regional Center of Excellence and Capacity Building for Combating Trafficking in Persons was presented, particularly with regard to the establishment of a group of certified trainers, comprising first responders and practitioners in the field of combating trafficking in persons, as well as regional. The function of the center is to develop specialized training materials within a regional perspective, studies and research in the field of combating human trafficking.
Rial