Doha: Qatar has sharply criticised all forms of slavery as violating human rights and impeding their enjoyment.
This came in an address by Al Mohannad Al Hammadi, the Second Secretary at the permanent delegation of Qatar in Geneva, to the 24th session of the Human Rights Council.
The session was within the framework of interactive debate on the report of the Special Rapporteur on contemporary slavery, its causes and consequences.
Al Hammadi recalled Article IV of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which says no one shall be held in servitude and prohibits slavery and human trafficking in all forms.
He also highlighted Qatar’s Law No. 15 of 2011 on combating human trafficking and said it guarantees protection of victims, and provides them with healthcare, education and social care.
He said the law also focuses on creating the appropriate conditions for victims’ rehabilitation and reintegration into society in a way that takes care of their needs and dignity.
Al Hammadi about spoke about efforts Qatar has been exerting to combat human trafficking and related crimes through institutions, including the Qatar Foundation for Combating Human Trafficking.
QFCHT promotes awareness about human trafficking and ways to combat it and provides assistance and protection to victims and helps in their rehabilitation, he said.
He also stressed Qatar’s care and keenness to promote and protect rights of expat workers guaranteed in the state’s Constitution and conventions and agreements of the International Labour Organisation, signed by Qatar.
Al Hammadi said Qatar welcomed recommendations in the report of Gulnara Shahinian, Special Rapporteur, on slavery, especially the establishment of specialised agencies or institutions with specific mission to promote awareness and provide mechanisms to end the scourge.
QNA
