More support for victims of human trafficking

Abu Dhabi has expanded its support to victims of human trafficking incidents in the UAE.

ABU DHABI // Abu Dhabi has expanded the support it provides for victims of human trafficking.

Taqa, the Abu Dhabi National Energy Company, has signed an agreement with the humanitarian organisation Ewa’a to provide support over the next three years.

This will include the maintenance of the three Ewa’a shelters for vulnerable women and children in Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah. The Abu Dhabi shelter alone can accommodate 60 women and children.

“As a global energy company we have a responsibility to be an active and supportive member of the communities in which we operate,” said Stephen John, Taqa’s head of sustainable development.

“Partnering with humanitarian organisations is part of our wider community investment approach.

“We have valuable experience from undertaking community projects internationally on four continents, and look forward to contributing this knowledge to the benefit of local communities, together with our partners.”

Ewa’a, which means “to shelter”, was established by donations received from Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the chairwoman of the UAE General Women’s Union, the Family Development Foundation and the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood.

As part of a national action plan, the UAE has also set up the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking, which works with ministries and non-governmental organisations.

“It is important that Taqa has joined us in this project,” said Sarah Shuhailm, the executive director of Ewa’a.

“Its support will, of course, help with the daily running of our work, but it will be especially valuable to this project to be able to call on Taqa’s experience in community projects internationally.”

Ewa’a partners with several Abu Dhabi organisations to support victims by providing shelter, rehabilitation, education and helping them return to their countries of origin.