Statement from Foreign Affairs On Maintaining Tier 1 Status on Trafficking in Persons
Statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
On Maintaining Tier 1 Status on Trafficking in Persons
June 30, 2016
Nassau, Bahamas
The Ministry is pleased to announce that the Government of The Bahamas has maintained Tier 1 status from United States Department of State regarding Trafficking In Persons (TIP). Tier 1 is the highest ranking possible according to the Department of State. This means that The Bahamas is currently compliant with the “minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking in persons”.
According to the 2016 TIP Report produced by the US Department of State, “the Government of The Bahamas fully meets the standards of the elimination of trafficking and has continued strong collaboration across multiple government agencies, resulting in prosecutions of traffickers and protection of victims”.
Secretary of State Kerry has recognized nine (9) individuals for their outstanding contribution and work in the fight against trafficking in persons, one of whom is Ms Karen Rigby, Under Secretary in the Ministry of National Security and Chair of The Bahamas’ Trafficking In Persons Inter-Ministry Committee (TIP Committee). She was recognized for her leadership role in implementing the country’s National Action Plan on human trafficking and her commitment to training individuals likely to come into contact with victims of human trafficking.