KUWAIT: Minister of Justice and Chairman of the National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling Nasser Al-Sumait announced on Sunday the launch of Kuwait’s National Strategy for the period 2025–2028. The strategy aims to enhance prevention, protection and accountability mechanisms to address all forms of exploitation, human trafficking and migrant smuggling.

Speaking in a press statement, Al-Sumait emphasized that the launch of this national strategy reaffirms Kuwait’s commitment to human rights and the promotion of social justice. He said the country will adopt systematic measures to strengthen its national framework in line with international best practices and the standards outlined in treaties Kuwait has ratified.

The strategy focuses on several key areas, including the activation of legal and regulatory tools, the development of a comprehensive national referral system, enhanced capabilities for law enforcement, improved oversight and transparency, unified data collection and stronger international cooperation and public awareness. It also aims to improve Kuwait’s international ranking in the fight against trafficking.

Al-Sumait explained that the strategy was developed through a collaborative effort involving relevant government agencies and national experts. It is based on an objective assessment of current challenges and a careful review of regional and global developments. He stressed that the new strategy marks the beginning of a more serious and transparent phase in addressing human trafficking and reflects the state’s recognition of the need for an integrated system that includes prevention, protection and accountability, as well as improved national coordination to ensure effective implementation.

The national committee will monitor implementation through regular reviews and progress assessments, while engaging key stakeholders, civil society organizations, and international and regional partners. Al-Sumait affirmed Kuwait’s strong belief that addressing human trafficking and migrant smuggling requires unified efforts and coordination at all levels.

Meanwhile, Interior Ministry Undersecretary Lt Gen Sheikh Salem Al-Nawaf Al-Sabah held a meeting with Othman Belbeisi, Regional Director of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for the Middle East and North Africa. The two discussed ways to enhance joint cooperation, particularly in combating human trafficking.

Sheikh Salem Nawaf underscored the importance of regional and international cooperation to combat trafficking crimes, reiterating Kuwait’s commitment to working with international organizations to protect human rights in accordance with international conventions and treaties. Belbeisi expressed IOM’s appreciation for its partnership with Kuwait’s ministry of interior and stressed the need to expand cooperation in the face of growing challenges in the field of human trafficking. — KUNA