Manama, Bahrain – 16 March 2023. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) in the Kingdom of Bahrain, in collaboration with the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA), delivered a five-day training of trainers workshop for frontline workers on how to effectively identify and respond to potential situations of trafficking in persons.

The workshop, which was developed under the framework of IOM’s partnership with the LMRA, builds on IOM’s ongoing support to the Regional Centre of Excellence and Capacity Building for Combatting Trafficking in Persons (RCoE) in training frontline workers on counter-trafficking. Since its launch in 2021, the RCoE through its collaboration with IOM has been increasing the number of certified frontline workers in Bahrain, which reached over 50 this year.

“The strong partnership we have with the LMRA continues to play an important role in spreading knowledge on protection mechanisms and trauma-informed practices to support potential victims of trafficking,” said Mohamed El Zarkani, IOM Bahrain Chief of Mission. “The RCoE offers a unique platform to enhance the capacity of frontline workers to identify and refer vulnerable migrants who may be subject to exploitation to the relevant authorities for swift protection.”

“The LMRA engages with IOM to reinforce counter-trafficking responses in line with the Kingdom’s priorities on combatting trafficking in persons. We appreciate the diversity of frontline workers who have participated in the RCoE’s activities thus far and encourage them to share their knowledge with fellow colleagues in their respective work sectors,” said H.E. Nouf Jamsheer, Chief Executive Officer of the LMRA.

Participants at the workshop represented academics, airport personnel, criminal justice practitioners, labour inspectors, LMRA personnel, media experts, medical personnel and shelter staff. The workshop focused on the knowledge and skills required to recognize key signs of vulnerability and exploitation, confirm initial suspicions of trafficking and report such cases to the LMRA’s Expatriate Protection Centre, which hosts Bahrain’s National Referral Mechanism. Participants also had the opportunity to explore the impact of psychological trauma on victims and practical approaches to adapt their interactions with potential victims, including through the application of Psychological First Aid (PFA) techniques.

Notes to editors:

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is part of the United Nations System as the leading inter-governmental organization since 1951 promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, with 175 member states and a presence in over 100 countries. The IOM plays a key role in meeting the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development through different areas of intervention that connect both humanitarian assistance and sustainable development.

For more information please contact:

Ms. Amy Edwards E-mail: aedwards@iom.int