While the Nationalist Party said it welcomes the fact that the Government has finally published a National Strategy on Sexual Health for public consultation, it notes that this has come far too late. Malta's last Sexual Health Strategy was issued in 2010, and the Partit Nazzjonalista has long called for an update to this strategy. It had expected the Labour Government - which often speaks about civil rights and progressive, liberal policies - to be more proactive given the circumstances in our country.

The PN noted that this strategy for the period 2025-2030 includes good proposals that, however, have been promised for a long time. These include access to PrEP and PEP, which the Partit Nazzjonalista has also long advocated for. There must be assurance that these and other proposals are not left on paper but are implemented as quickly as possible.

While this strategy contains valid and positive points, it lacks specificity and fails to outline how certain measures will be implemented and measured.

Therefore, the PN said it is putting forward its suggestions on how this strategy can be improved, looking ahead by being proactive and considering what is being done in other countries, while proposing what should be done in Malta to ensure the best possible protection of public health:

1.       The definition of sexual health is somewhat abstract, with no clear indication of how it should be applied in the local context. It also lacks inclusivity, with no reference to non-binary and gender non-conforming individuals or people with disabilities. Additionally, socio-economic and cultural factors are not sufficiently considered. The Partit Nazzjonalista insists that more aspects should be addressed, such as sexual education in Malta, the inclusion of individuals of different ages, abilities, genders, and sexual orientations, the role of digital media, and more effective measures against stigma and taboos related to sex and sexual practices, which often deter people from seeking help and healthcare.

2.       The vision of this strategy is vague and lacks detailed substance on what will actually be done. Therefore, clear criteria must be established to measure the success of this strategy, timelines should be set for the implementation of measures, and a concrete plan should be outlined for collaboration between different ministries.

3.       Compared to other countries, the strategy lags behind and fails to address how the sexual health of specific groups will be safeguarded, particularly in relation to sexual education. We suggest looking at models from the Netherlands and Finland, especially regarding anti-discrimination efforts and modern sexual education in the digital age.

4.       The provision of free contraceptives for everyone is a positive initiative. However, the accessibility process must not take too long, and a clear plan is needed regarding where and how these contraceptives will be distributed. We also propose that medication for sexual dysfunction should be more accessible and included in the national formulary for individuals with chronic conditions.

5.       While cancer prevention is mentioned, we propose that screening should be expanded and made more rigorous to target high-risk groups, with a specific timeline for implementation.

6.       The strategy acknowledges the increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) but fails to specify how this issue will be addressed. We propose a concrete action plan, including awareness campaigns tailored to different age groups, genders, and sexual orientations. We also suggest expanding community-based services and call for a clear plan to address antibiotic resistance, particularly in treating gonorrhoea.

7.       Waiting lists at the GU Clinic are far too long, yet there is no mention of how this problem will be solved. The Partit Nazzjonalista insists on the urgent need for the clinic to become a walk-in service, extend its operating hours to include weekends, and increase specialist professionals in this field. We also propose more than one clinic, with additional facilities located in community settings.

8.       While this strategy is a positive step in the right direction, it lacks depth and fails to propose bold measures that could be highly effective.

9.       The strategy does not prioritise mental health. Issues related to compulsive sexual behaviour and pornography addiction, which are recognised by the World Health Organisation, have been completely ignored. This aspect must be included in the strategy. We propose the provision of more support and therapy for individuals with sexual health issues stemming from mental health conditions.

The PN also called for the strategy to be reviewed after public consultation and launched as soon as possible. Furthermore, it should be continuously evaluated, rather than waiting another 15 years for a follow-up.

The PN said it remains committed to ensuring that public health remains a top priority.