Bahamas Maintains Tier 1 Human Trafficking Ranking Amidst Cuban Labor Contract Scrutiny

Bahamas Achieves Decade of Tier 1 Status in Anti-Trafficking Efforts

Nassau, Bahamas – The Bahamas has once again secured a Tier 1 ranking in the U.S. State Department's 2025 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, marking the tenth consecutive year the nation has met the minimum standards for the elimination of human trafficking. The report, released recently, acknowledges the Bahamian government's 'serious and sustained efforts' during the reporting period. This top-tier designation signifies that a government fully complies with the minimum standards outlined in the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000 (TVPA), demonstrating appreciable progress in combating trafficking annually.

Progress and Persistent Challenges Highlighted

The 2025 TIP Report commended The Bahamas for several key advancements. These include an increase in trafficking prosecutions, a boost in funding for victim assistance, and the development of a new tool designed for the rapid screening of potential victims. Authorities also reported investigating and prosecuting more suspected traffickers and identifying a male victim for the first time. The government's efforts extended to carrying out multiple awareness-raising activities, including prevention initiatives targeting vulnerable communities.

However, the report also underscored areas requiring further attention. For the second consecutive year, authorities did not secure a single conviction for trafficking offenses. Investigations saw a decrease, with 13 cases initiated in 2024 compared to 25 in 2023, although prosecutions were initiated against 20 alleged traffickers. Allegations of official corruption and complicity, particularly involving immigration officers, remained a concern, with the report noting that such claims were not investigated. Furthermore, a new national action plan to combat human trafficking has yet to be finalized, following the expiration of the previous plan in 2023.

Cuban Labor Contracts Under Intense Scrutiny

A significant point of concern in the 2025 TIP Report revolved around The Bahamas' bilateral labor agreement with the Cuban regime for the provision of Cuban workers, including doctors and teachers. The report indicated 'serious concerns' that the Cuban regime forced these workers to work. It was reported that the Bahamian government paid up to 92 percent of these workers' salaries directly to the Cuban regime, which the U.S. State Department stated 'directly contributing to their exploitation.' Approximately 40 Cuban medical professionals were noted to be working in The Bahamas under these arrangements.

The U.S. had previously issued warnings that participation in Cuba's state-run labor-export system could lead to visa sanctions for Bahamian officials and their families. In response to these concerns and discussions with the United States, the Bahamian government has initiated steps to address the issue. These measures include cancelling contractor-based agreements, confirming that Cuban health professionals will now be hired directly by the government, and temporarily halting the recruitment of new Cuban workers. While Prime Minister Philip Davis has rejected accusations of forced labor, he acknowledged that the existing payment system could be reviewed, asserting that his government 'will not intentionally or willingly engage in matters that amount to forced labor.'