Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela has launched the long-awaited second National Strategy for the safeguarding of Sexual Health for 2025-2030 for public consultation, which includes recommendations such as adding the emergency contraceptive pill to the national formulary.

Abela explained that the second national Sexual Health Strategy represents an important step in the country’s ongoing efforts to promote sexual and reproductive health and rights among the Maltese population over the next six years.

The strategy recommends that the emergency contraceptive pill, also known as the morning-after pill, should be added to the national formulary to make it more accessible, and condoms to be provided for free to anyone aged over 16 to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

It also proposes free preventive treatment against HIV for those at risk of contracting it. The policy also includes providing sexual health education for children, youth, adolescents and parents or guardians, and funding to provide free modern contraception and options for surgical contraception to all people (first for vulnerable groups).

The strategy recommends including linguistic and culturally competent care for migrants, introducing sensitive interviews for victims of sexual violence, and providing opioid substitution treatment and clean injections.

Preventive treatments include PrEP and PEP. PrEP is a medication taken before sexual activity to reduce the risk of HIV transmission, whilst PEP is a treatment that needs to be taken within 72 hours after a high-risk sexual encounter.

He noted that the demographics of the population, behaviours, and health needs have all changed, alongside opportunities in diagnostics, prevention, and treatment.

“This also means that we need to be proactive in preparing for current and future challenges in this area,” he added.

Abela said that Malta has undergone several social and legislative changes, which have shaped the landscape of sexual and reproductive health in the country.

He emphasized the importance of addressing the sexual health needs and rights of all members of the population, with particular focus on specific groups.

“Through the contributions of many, we aim to approach sexual health and well-being from a positive perspective, focusing on current needs, social norms, and the challenges faced by key populations in accessing sexual health services,” Abela said, with the goal being to ensure that everyone can enjoy a safe sexual life, free from coercion, discrimination, and violence.

The public and civil society organizations are encouraged to participate in the consultation process, which begins tomorrow, 11 December, and which will remain open until 11 February, 2025.