Home Ministry: Govt. aims to establish system to identify, prevent crime before it occurs

The Ministry of Homeland Security, Labor and Technology has stated that establishing a proactive system capable of identifying and preventing crime before it occurs remains one of the current administration's key priorities.

In a statement issued to mark World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the Ministry said public awareness is essential to achieving this objective. As part of these efforts, the government is expanding awareness programs targeting expatriate workers and employers. The initiatives include informing migrant workers of their basic rights before and after arriving in the Maldives, while also providing guidance on the mechanisms available for reporting complaints and concerns.

The Ministry said the government is also strengthening migration management through the introduction of biometric registration and advanced digital systems as part of broader efforts to combat crime. According to the Ministry, these measures are expected to improve the integrity of the migration system and enhance the management of expatriate-related services.

The statement also highlighted the publication and implementation of the Maldives Anti-Human Trafficking Strategic Plan 2026–2028, which outlines the government's approach to combating human trafficking. The plan is intended to guide the work of relevant state institutions by addressing existing gaps and establishing a coordinated framework for preventing and responding to trafficking-related offences.

This year's theme for World Day Against Trafficking in Persons is ‘Trapped Behind the Scams’. The Ministry said the theme reflects the growing role of technology and digital platforms in facilitating human trafficking and other forms of exploitation.

According to the Ministry, the initiatives form part of a broader strategy aimed at reducing crime and strengthening public safety across the Maldives.

World Day Against Trafficking in Persons is observed annually on July 30 under the auspices of the United Nations to raise awareness of human trafficking and promote the protection of victims' rights.

Human trafficking includes serious human rights violations such as forced labour, sexual exploitation and forced marriage. The Ministry stressed that combating the crime requires a collective effort, emphasizing that ending human trafficking is not solely the responsibility of governments but also depends on the active participation and vigilance of every member of society.