Malta retained its spot, for the eighth year in a row, as number one in Europe and Central Asia for LGBTIQ+ protection and human rights.

This ranking is published by the international association ILGA-Europe which evaluates the situation of laws and policies on LGBTIQ+ equality in 49 countries in Europe and Central Asia.

A score of 89% was assigned to Malta, 13% ahead of the country that ranked second on the list.

In a statement released by the parliamentary secretariat for reforms and equality, it said that Malta provides legal protection in various areas of equality and non-discrimination. These would include hate crimes and hate speech, legal gender recognition, intersex, civil society and asylum.

It added that the government will work to provide more legal protection for LGBTIQ+ people, particularly by implementing legislation which prohibits discrimination and the establishment of an equality body.

“With the continuous efforts and collaboration of social partners including civil society to continue to reach the goals ours for an increasingly equal Malta. I am convinced that this government will continue to work until this is accomplished,” said parliamentary secretary for reforms and equality Rebecca Buttigieg.

The human rights directorate and parliamentary secretariat for reforms and equality will continue to work on improving and implementing legislation and policies to protect the rights of LGBTIQ+ persons, by also education and removing any prejudice or hatred, the statement read.