The Trafficking In Persons (TIP) Secretariat was established in 2019 to oversee the administration of the TIP Inter-Ministry Committee and TIP Task Force. These two bodies are distinct in their function and together they coordinate the country’s efforts to combat trafficking in persons.

Inter-Ministry Committee on Trafficking in Persons

The Inter-Ministry Committee on Trafficking in Persons (TIP Committee) commenced its functions in November 2011. It is the coordinating body for policy matters relating to trafficking in persons. As such, it provides advice on trafficking matters relating to recommendations to strengthen national anti-trafficking initiatives, including through the identification of opportunities for training, dissemination of information, public awareness, and coordinating The Bahamas reporting obligations to regional and international organizations including the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNDOC), the Organization of American States (OAS). The TIP Committee comprises senior Government officials from the Ministries including; National Security, Foreign Affairs, Social Services and Community Development, Health, and the Office of the Attorney General, Department of Public Prosecutions, the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF), the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF), Department of Immigration, Department of Labour, Bahamas Customs Department. As appropriate, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Faith-based Organizations (FBOs) are invited to participate in the work of the TIP Committee.

Trafficking in Persons Task Force

The Trafficking in Persons Task Force (TIP Task Force) was established in March 2012. It is an operational body that takes matters forward and monitors these matters from the identification of a victim or potential victim to the prosecution of an alleged trafficker. The TIP Task Force is a forum for ensuring coordination between Government agencies and NGOs on trafficking in persons. Task Force members also include designated and specially trained “Victim Interviewers”.