Bahrain hosts Middle East forum to combat human trafficking

The Middle East Government Forum to Combat Trafficking in Persons is currently taking place in Bahrain, running from October 12 to 14, 2026. Organized by the Labour Market Regulatory Authority in coordination with the National Committee to Combat Trafficking in Persons, the event is held under the theme ‘Enhancing the Sustainability of Efforts through Innovation and Partnerships.’

The forum includes participants from national committees in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, Egypt, and Jordan, alongside representatives from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Discussions focus on identifying challenges, providing practical solutions to reduce crime, and sharing successful national practices to enhance protection and prevention.

A specific session highlighted the role of media and communication in combating trafficking. Participants emphasized the importance of professional media coverage in raising community awareness and supporting prevention pathways. During the opening, Bahrain's Foreign Minister noted that the Kingdom has maintained a Tier 1 rating in the U.S. Department of State's annual Trafficking in Persons report for nine consecutive years.