Human trafficking victims to get free legal aid

dubai — Free legal services will be provided to victims of violence and human trafficking in the UAE. The Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (DFWAC) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Humaid Darwish Advocates & Legal Consultants to this effect. The firm will represent the victims in different types of civil, criminal or other legal courts of all degrees in the country. Under the agreement, the advocates will provide all legal services free of charge to the cases transferred to it from the DFWAC. It will also provide training courses and specialised workshops for the foundation’s employees in legal issues related to domestic violence, human trafficking and child abuse.

“We are always pleased to see the great interest that the private sector in the UAE has to the issues of society in general, and women and children in particular,” said Afra Al Basti, Director-General of the DFWAC.

Humaid Ghulam Darwish, director of the legal consultancy, said: “We are honoured to have the trust of the DFWAC, which is supporting and fostering every vulnerable person in need of social and family care and guidance.”

The DFWAC is the first licensed non-profit shelter in the UAE for women and children victims of domestic violence, child abuse, and human trafficking. It was established in July 2007 to offer victims immediate protection and support services in accordance with international human rights obligations. —