Full marks to the UAE authorities for setting up a system of guidelines and processes geared towards combating the trafficking and exploitation of children. The efforts have met with unanimous acknowledgement, especially when presented before the Human Rights Council in Geneva.
The UAE's approach in this field has been far from theoretical: A number of laws on combating human trafficking, slavery and exploitation of children, such as the penal code, juvenile act, among others, have been introduced and strictly enforced.
The UAE is a major force when it comes to creating and sustaining a safe environment for children. It is an able partner in the application of this principle along with fellow nations. This spirit is at the essence of the country's culture, which recognises that children are the future and their interests must be safeguarded with a view towards ensuring their survival, growth and development.
The UAE's spirit of enterprise in this field is not just reflected internally but externally as well: the far-reaching Dubai Cares project — supporting education programmes in Africa, Eastern Europe, South Asia and the Middle East — being the perfect example. A staggering one million children benefited from this and all conscious UAE citizens put their shoulder to the wheel to make it happen. This signifies the country's commitment.
