Doha, July 30 (QNA) - The Ministry of Labour, represented by the National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking, has launched the National Referral System for Combating Human Trafficking, a comprehensive national framework designed to unify efforts, strengthen institutional coordination among relevant stakeholders, and ensure an effective and coordinated response that places victim protection at the forefront.

The establishment of the National Referral System forms part of the State of Qatar's ongoing efforts to combat all forms of human trafficking and address the humanitarian and legal challenges faced by victims of exploitation.

The system is based on a coordinated national approach that brings together relevant stakeholders to ensure the protection of victims, prevent further harm, and support the identification, investigation and prosecution of perpetrators in accordance with national legislation and international standards.

The National Referral System is supported by broad national partnerships involving government and non-government stakeholders, including the National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking, the Ministry of Labour, the Ministry of Interior, the Public Prosecution, the Supreme Judiciary Council, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Public Health, the National Human Rights Committee, the Aman Centre, as well as embassies, relevant diplomatic missions, and local and international organisations.

The National Referral System adopts a victim-centred approach guided by the principles of non-discrimination, respect for human dignity, confidentiality and the protection of personal data. It also ensures that victims are not held responsible for acts committed as a direct result of their exploitation.

The system further guarantees victims a protection period that enables them to make informed decisions freely, without pressure or coercion, and without requiring their cooperation with investigations or judicial proceedings as a condition for receiving protection or assistance.

Beyond these protection guarantees, the National Referral System establishes an integrated pathway covering the identification and early detection of suspected cases, reporting procedures, initial protection measures and risk assessments. It also provides comprehensive assistance services, supports investigation and prosecution efforts, and promotes durable solutions that bring exploitation to an end while supporting victims’ recovery and reintegration.

The National Referral System for Combating Human Trafficking represents a coordinated national model founded on partnership and institutional cooperation.

It reflects the State of Qatar’s commitment to strengthening a justice framework that extends beyond law enforcement to encompass victim protection, care and support, while enhancing prevention efforts, upholding human dignity and reinforcing the rule of law. (QNA)