Survivor of trafficking earns diploma in combating human trafficking in Dubai

‘S.G.’ is a talented young man who dreamed of playing football in Europe. Tragically, his aspirations were shattered when he fell victim to a human trafficking gang that forced him into labour in an exploitative industry targeting women. He endured relentless abuse and threats to his life before he ultimately managed to hard-earned escape.

After such a harrowing experience, the young man moved to Dubai, encouraged by a friend to start anew. There, he secured employment with a private security company at one of the airports.

The company nominated him to enrol in the ‘Anti-Human Trafficking Specialist Diploma’, a program launched by the National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking and the Dubai Police, in cooperation with the Dubai Judicial Institute, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. This diploma aims to prepare specialists to effectively and professionally address human trafficking crimes and support their victims.

Diploma Completion and Research

Despite suffering significant challenges from his harsh experience, the young man met all diploma requirements and conducted an in-depth study titled "Border Control Procedures to Prevent Human Trafficking Crimes." In his conclusion, he presented five key recommendations to address this critical issue, underscoring the necessity of a comprehensive training program for law enforcement and border control officials. This program should encompass human trafficking indicators, victims' rights, and the procedures for reporting and responding to trafficking cases.

In his research, he advocated for establishing mechanisms to enhance cooperation and information sharing among agencies and organizations, including law enforcement, border control, and non-governmental organizations. He also recommended launching public awareness and educational campaigns to inform the public about human trafficking indicators, victims' rights, and reporting procedures.

He underscored the necessity of creating mechanisms to support and protect human trafficking victims, ensuring their access to medical care, social services, and legal assistance. Additionally, he stressed the importance of developing and implementing effective border control measures, including using biometric technology, conducting thorough risk assessments, profiling, and promoting collaboration among various agencies and organizations.

Knowledge Against Human Trafficking

The young man shared his experience completing his diploma: "I joined the program at my manager's recommendation, which encouraged me to deepen my understanding of human trafficking, its indicators, and its components. Although I hadn't previously shared my own harsh experiences with him, I opened up to my classmates during the course. They were taken aback by the details I shared and urged me to continue, persevere, and put in the effort."

He remarked, "The diploma offered a valuable opportunity to deepen my understanding of this inhuman crime and to share that knowledge with my colleagues, particularly as we work in the private security and guarding sector. This experience empowers us to save lives by recognizing the signs and indicators that victims of these transnational crimes may exhibit."

He stressed that knowledge and awareness are essential preventive measures that can shield anyone from falling victim to trafficking gangs.

His Story with the Deceptive Broker

The young man's journey began as a talented football player in his home country, with dreams of playing in Europe. One day, a man approached him, claiming to be a football agent. He promised to help the young man become a professional with a club in an African country, where he would be taken directly to Europe to play.

He continued, "I saved money and traveled a long way through the desert to reach the African country, excited to pursue my dream. But upon arrival, I was devastated to discover that there was no football club. Instead, I had fallen into the clutches of a human trafficking gang, and the broker was one of its members."

Beatings and Death Threats

The young man stated, "They forced me to work for them under threats and beatings. They were involved in the exploitation of women, and my role was to guard and transport them from one location to another. I attempted to escape the first time, but they caught me, brutally assaulted me, and threatened to kill me if I ever attempted to flee again."

Escape and Stability

He mentioned that his second attempt to escape was successful, aided by someone who sympathized with him. He traveled through several countries before finally returning home safely. Later, a friend living in the UAE offered to help him find a job. Arriving on a visitor's visa, he secured employment with a private security company, which transformed his life and provided him with psychological, mental, and social stability.