The Sultanate of Oman continues its relentless efforts to combat human trafficking as it was one of the first countries to enact legislation to eliminate this menace. Oman recognises human trafficking as a grave violation of human rights, gives utmost importance to combating it, and remains committed to preserving human dignity. It is also making extensive efforts to improve the working conditions of workers and guarantees rights in terms of occupational safety and health.
Oman, represented by the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking (NCCHT), continues to work diligently in tune with domestic and regional laws, treaties, and conventions related to combating human trafficking to address this phenomenon.
As earlier revealed by Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali al Harthy, Under-Secretary of the Foreign Ministry for Diplomatic Affairs and Chairman of NCCHT, Oman is among the pioneers towards in legislations against this inhumane practice as it passed the Anti-Trafficking Law way back in 2008.
This significant move highlights the country’s ongoing commitment to abolish such a form of exploitation. “NCCHT has completed drafting a new law against human trafficking. The imminent launch of the National Referral System, development of the National Action Plan (2024-2026), and establishment of bilateral agreements with labour-exporting countries further illustrate Oman’s commitment,” says Al Harthy.
Oman’s commitment extends to the protection of human trafficking victims including children, men and women. To facilitate this, Oman has established ‘Dar al Wefaq’, a safe house providing victims with a range of services such as psychological support, social rehabilitation, and legal assistance. Recognising the need for collective efforts, the government works with the private sector and civil society organisations to support these victims.
Oman has made unremitting efforts to confront this crime, based on the Basic Law of the State, which guarantees justice and equality for all segments of society, and maintains security and protection for citizens and residents from any transgressions affecting their dignity and legitimate rights.
At a high-level international meeting on combating human trafficking at the United Nations headquarters in New York, the Sultanate of Oman is on the record as stating that human trafficking is not compatible with its principles and values.
As part of the efforts to prosecute crimes related to human trafficking in Oman, dedicated offices have been set up within the Public Prosecution, the Royal Oman Police (ROP), the Ministry of Labour and the Foreign Ministry.
The effort also includes rapid intervention team headed by the Public Prosecution and comprises the Foreign Ministry, the Ministry of Labour, the Ministry of Social Development and the Royal Oman Police.
According to Public Prosecution, those found trafficking in persons or aiding the same will be imprisoned for a period up to 15 years and could face a fine of RO 150,000. “Creating a website or publishing information on the Internet or means of information technology with the intent to trafficking in persons or facilitate dealing with the same is an offence punishable by imprisonment for a period up to 15 years and a fine up to RO 150,000,” the statement from Public Prosecution said.
Also, the department for combating human trafficking at the ROP has been upgraded to an administrative unit that includes four departments - monitoring and information gathering, international cooperation, case affairs and coordination and follow-up.
To preserve the values of humanity, maintain the status of people, and protect them from any form of slavery, the Royal Oman Police, represented by the Directorate-General of Inquiries and Criminal Investigations, works to combat the crime of human trafficking, through dedicated and professional work.
The Ministry of Labour also plays an important role in combating human trafficking. It includes a special section for combating human trafficking, which is concerned with investigating complaints related to human trafficking and providing victims with necessary care.
The section also organises awareness and educational campaigns to prevent human trafficking, cooperates with local and international units in combating human trafficking, and exchanges information and experiences, as well as provides training and vocational rehabilitation for victims to increase their chances of obtaining legitimate and sustainable job opportunities.
Combating human trafficking is a national responsibility in Oman, which requires the solidarity of all members of society to confront it in cooperation with the departments concerned. In this context, NCCHT also plays a leading role in providing protection and assistance to victims.
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