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On World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) has highlighted intensifying national efforts to combat trafficking, including labor market enforcement and national policy development.
In the first quarter of 2025, HRSD carried out more than 61,500 field inspections to verify working and living conditions, detect potential indicators of forced labor, and ensure compliance with ethical recruitment and employment practices. These inspections reflect the strenghtening of the Ministry’s capacity to proactively monitor workplaces and address violations as part of a wider national system rooted in prevention, protection, and accountability.
His Excellency the Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, Eng. Ahmad bin Sulaiman Al-Rajhi, said:
“This crime represents one of the most serious violations of human rights and demands a comprehensive institutional response - one that begins with prevention, includes protection, and ends with accountability.
The Kingdom’s efforts to combat trafficking in persons are reflected in its legislative framework, which is aligned with international standards, and aimed at protecting human dignity and ensuring fair and safe working environments.
As we acknowledge that addressing this complex crime requires sustained action, coordinated institutional efforts, and international cooperation, we remain focused on strengthening the systems and partnerships needed to prevent exploitation, protect victims, and hold violators accountable.”
A key milestone in this work was the adoption in 2025 of Saudi Arabia’s National Policy to Eliminate Forced Labor, the first of its kind in the Gulf region. The policy outlines clear commitments to promoting decent work, protecting vulnerable groups, and ensuring a labor environment free from coercion and discrimination.
To support implementation, HRSD has introduced several reforms and tools, including the National Referral Mechanism for Victims of Trafficking in Persons, the Labor Reform Initiative, new Domestic Worker Regulations, and updated rules for digital recruitment advertisements. These initiatives are reinforced by national awareness campaigns, digital reporting platforms, and multilingual 24/7 helplines, aimed at improving access to protection services and encouraging early detection.
Alongside enforcement, the Ministry continues to provide legal, psychological, and social support to potential victims of trafficking. It also works closely with diplomatic missions and regulatory bodies to strengthen oversight and improve response mechanisms.
These efforts reflect HRSD’s determination to build a labor market grounded in dignity, fairness, and the rule of law. As global challenges evolve, the Kingdom is advancing practical solutions in partnership with others to end trafficking in all its forms and safeguard the rights of every worker.
