17 people are currently receiving assistance from local services for human trafficking, the government said.
Agenzija Appogg, within the Foundation for Social Welfare Services (FSWS), continued to strengthen its commitment to combat human trafficking through a comprehensive and holistic approach that prioritizes the well-being and support of all individuals affected by human trafficking, a government statement read.
On the International Day Against Human Trafficking, FSWS organised a conference with the theme ‘Preventing Human Trafficking: Stopping Abuse Before It Starts,’ which attended by various stakeholders who discussed the best ways to help the victims of this kind.
It was mentioned that currently, there are 17 people receiving assistance from the local human trafficking service.
Through Agenzija Appoġġ, sessions are given to both professionals and victims. This aims to increase awareness, create a safer environment for all individuals, and prevent future cases of exploitation, it said.
The statement said that Agenzija Appoġġ also runs a shelter for human trafficking victims, in a safe and supportive environment where victims can access essential services, receive advice, and begin the process of emotional and even physical healing.
During the past year, this residence hosted 11 residents from different nationalities.
Minister for Social Policy Michael Falzon said that government is committed to continuing to raise awareness about the warning signs of human trafficking, by improving communication among professionals, with the main priority remaining to provide long-term support to individuals at risk.
Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms Rebecca Buttigieg announced that Malta will soon have its first national strategy with measures designed to combat human trafficking.
She said that in the last three years, a lot of preparatory work has been done with the help of experts from the Council of Europe, which consisted of training public officials and awareness campaigns so that the strategy can be implemented and be more effective.
Buttigieg said that the Human Rights Directorate within the Parliamentary Secretariat is running another awareness campaign about various forms of human trafficking to raise awareness about this organised crime that also requires public cooperation to be combated.
If you need more information or specific resources about the prevention and fight against human trafficking, call 22959000 or Supportline 179.