UAE Red Crescent Authority open women's shelter

The UAE Red Crescent Authority (UAE RCA) in collaboration with the UAE National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking announce the opening of a new centre in Abu Dhabi for sheltering women and children who are victims of human trafficking and other forms of abuse or exploitation. The centre will serve as a safe haven for the victims, where they will be provided medical care, counseling and social support.

His Excellency Dr Anwar Gargash, Minister of State for FNC Affairs and head of the UAE National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking (NCCHT) stated that this initiative comes in line with the UAE strategy to combat human trafficking. He said:'The decision to establish this shelter reiterates the UAE's strong commitment to combat the transnational crime of human trafficking, and focuses on the four major pillars of the UAE National Committee's strategy to tackle this issue: 1) strengthening legislation 2) enforcing laws and training law enforcement officials, 3) providing support and protection to the victims and 4) promoting bilateral and international cooperation in tackling this issue.'

His Excellency Khalifa Nasser Al Suweidi, Chairman of the UAE RCA, said: 'The decision to open the new shelter is a significant push forward in our mission to support and help protect abused women and children. The proposal for such a centre is based on an extensive study of international best practices with regards to victim support prepared by a specialized committee and headed by the UAE Red Crescent Authority under the steering of the NCCHT.'

He also added: 'The UAE RCA will provide care to women and child victims in the UAE through various empowerment and rehabilitation programs and will ensure that victims are aware of their rights and safeguards under UAE law.'

UAE RCA will appoint an independent Board of Directors to oversee the management and operation of the shelter. The shelter comes as part of the overall strategy of the UAE to provide protection to victims of human trafficking and combat this horrific crime for a safe and prosperous UAE.

Dr. Gargash added: 'We are grateful for the support of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and President of the UAE Red Crescent Authority which reflects the keenness of the leadership to provide well being, protection and security for all victims of such crimes in the UAE. Furthermore, we are equally appreciative of the role and support of HH Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Presidential Affairs.'