JUSTICE MINISTRY REQUESTS SPECIFIC TIP TRAINING

UNCLAS ABU DHABI 001883 SIPDIS SIPDIS FOR NEA/ARP, G/TIP/MLAGON, AND G/TIP/GPATEL ALSO FOR INL, DRL, L/DL, NEA/RA E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PHUM PREL ELAB KCRM PGOV AE SUBJECT: JUSTICE MINISTRY REQUESTS SPECIFIC TIP TRAINING REFS: A) ABU DHABI 1820 (UAE training reminders) B) ABU DHABI 1687 (Ambassador Lagon's visit) ¶1. This is an action request cable. ¶2. Summary: The UAE Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has requested specific training for judges and prosecutors in implementing of its Trafficking in Persons (TIP) law. For a training workshop in February, 2008, MoJ is looking for advice from practitioners with a wealth of case-specific knowledge to share with UAE judicial officials; MoJ makes the point that it is not interested in mere "seminars" or "lectures" on TIP, but in practical help in implementing a strong anti-trafficking regime. End summary. ¶3. MoJ Under Secretary for International Cooperation Abdul Rahim al-Awadi (who joined Amb Lagon's meetings with the Minister of Justice cited ref B) asked the DCM and Pol Chief November 11 for assistance in identifying expert trainers to participate in an anti-TIP workshop in the UAE February 24-28 (two days each in Abu Dhabi and Dubai). Al-Awadi was adamant that the need is for "experts and practitioners" and not general presentations on the dynamics of TIP. ¶4. The training workshops are designed to assist judges, prosecutors, and investigators in implementing the UAE's new TIP law. MoJ wants to benefit from the case studies of experts who have direct experience in implementing similar laws -- how to "sift" and "differentiate" victims from criminals, for example, and how to ask the right questions to ascertain the hidden dynamics of a TIP case. Ascertaining the shadowy presence of organized crime networks in the background is also a goal. Presenters are asked to share their expertise primarily through case studies to a group of 30 to 40 UAE participants (with simultaneous interpretation). Particular expertise requested of the U.S. is divided into four topics, at two sessions. Each topic will be addressed by one speaker in a 45-minute presentation, followed by 45 minutes of case studies. --- Session: Investigative Methods and Techniques of Human Trafficking Crimes Topic #1: How to detect human trafficking crimes Topic #2: Investigative techniques of human trafficking crimes --- Session: Treatment and Interrogation of Victims of Human Trafficking Crimes Topic #1: Treatment of victims before the police and administrative authorities Topic #2: Interrogating victims before the judicial authorities ¶5. In the context of seeking experts with significant case experience, MoJ wants to build its capacity to implement the TIP law. The UAE will be seeking UN participation as well (the UAE donated $15 million to UNODC earlier this year). Al-Awadi noted Ambassador Lagon's stated desire to assist with training during his September meeting with the Minister, and hoped the U.S. experience could have application in the UAE via training provided by judges, prosecutors, and investigators who deal with TIP on a daily basis and could share their expert "on the job" knowledge with Emirati colleagues. He did not address funding for travel costs, which the UAE might be willing to provide if the USG offers appropriate experts for the program. ¶6. Comment: Post strongly endorses this request. While UAE training needs are varied, and some requirements might be fulfilled by non-governmental organizations, this particular request leans towards the practical experience of federal or state officials with hands-on knowledge of how to implement anti-TIP legislation. Post looks forward to further coordination with G/TIP on possible sources of expertise. End comment. SISON