Saudi Arabia's commitment to end trafficking: Protecting rights & preventing exploitation

Al Arabiya

7 days ago

Trafficking in persons, or human trafficking, is among the most damaging and organized forms of exploitation in the modern world. It violates fundamental human rights, fuels criminal networks, and threatens both social cohesion and economic stability.
On this World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, we are reminded that this crime is not only widespread but also evolving in both scope and method. Our collective response must rise to meet its growing complexity and urgency. It requires political will, cross-sector collaboration, and systems that are responsive to risk and grounded in human rights. The Kingdom acknowledges the urgency of this challenge and is committed to doing its part to confront it, particularly within the labor market.
At the foundation of our efforts lies a commitment to justice, dignity, and respect. These are not only legal obligations. They are the values that define the labor market Saudi Arabia is transforming under Vision 2030.
Our vision at the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) is guided by the Kingdom's National Action Plan to Combat Trafficking in Persons, and structured around four key pillars: prevention, protection, prosecution, and international cooperation. As a core implementation partner, we contribute across all four areas through clear policies, dedicated systems, and robust cooperation at both national and international levels.
Under prevention, we have launched significant labor reforms such as the National Policy to Eliminate Forced Labor, the first of its kind in the Gulf region. This policy advances decent work, reduces vulnerability, and promotes equitable treatment across the labor market.
We have also improved oversight of recruitment practices. As trafficking evolves, so must the tools we use to combat it. Increasingly, trafficking activity is shifting online, and our Ministry is adapting accordingly. We now monitor digital advertisements across websites, apps, and social media platforms, and have issued clear regulations banning exploitative terms, the misuse of personal information, and any language that undermines human dignity in job postings. Suspected cases are referred without delay to the relevant authorities for legal action.
To support protection, we have operationalized the second edition of the National Referral Mechanism, providing clear procedures and trained personnel to identify and support the victims of trafficking. These efforts are supported by accessible, technology-driven reporting tools, including the nation-wide contact unified number 19911, the 'Reporting Violations of Labor Regulations' e-service available on the Ministry's mobile application, and other applications that facilitate prompt and confidential reporting of suspected trafficking indicators. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, more than 61,500 proactive field inspections were carried out, and over 120 reports were acted on. These numbers demonstrate growing confidence in the system and the effectiveness of our response.
We have also strengthened enforcement by working closely with the Public Prosecution and other partners to uphold anti-trafficking laws. At the same time, we ensure access to safe shelter and legal, psychological, and social assistance for victims of trafficking. Our commitment extends beyond individual interventions. Through structural reforms, such as the contractual relationship improvement initiative, Domestic Workers Regulations, and the Wage Protection Program, we are reshaping the labor market to reduce exploitation at its source.
These national efforts are fully aligned with international standards. The Kingdom is a signatory to key international treaties, including the International Labour Organization (ILO) Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons. We have strengthened our partnerships with organizations such as the ILO to share knowledge, improve policies, and contribute to a coordinated global response. We also maintain active dialogue with the embassies of labor-sending countries to reinforce cooperation and safeguard workers' rights and welfare. Trafficking does not respect borders, and we must all act together to end it.
This World Day Against Trafficking in Persons is not only an opportunity to raise awareness. It is a reminder of our shared responsibility. Saudi Arabia is committed to working in partnership with the international community, including governments, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector to eliminate trafficking at its source and protect the dignity of every worker.