• Friday, September 19,2025

Safe Communities Forum Explores Protection for People of Determination Against Human Trafficking

In collaboration with The Arc USA, the largest national community-based organization in the United States serving people with intellectual disabilities,the Safe Communities Forum organized a virtual workshop titled People of Determination and Human Trafficking. The workshop focused on examining the challenges that make this group particularly vulnerable to exploitation and reviewing international best practices for their protection and advocacy.

The session brought together international experts and specialists in security, psychology, and public health, and was moderated by First Lieutenant Sultan Al Dahbashi, Director of the Permanent Alliance Development Branch at the International Affairs Office, Ministry of Interior.

Participants discussed the heightened risks faced by people of determination. Research indicates that individuals with intellectual disabilities are seven times more likely to be sexually assaulted than the general population, making targeted protective measures essential. The workshop emphasized the importance of empowering people of determination to report abuse and equipping specialists with practical tools to support victims and strengthen self-protection.

At the conclusion of the session, participants highlighted the need for increased community awareness, the development of preventative policies, and the establishment of international partnerships to safeguard people of determination from exploitation. They underscored that human trafficking is a global challenge requiring coordinated international efforts, knowledge exchange, and adoption of best practices to protect society’s most vulnerable members.