More than 300 public officials and 400 police officers have received training from the Human Rights Directorate focused on combating racism, xenophobia, and social exclusion, Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms, Rebecca Buttigieg, said.

Speaking during the closing conference of the SKIN project - Strengthening of Knowledge on Integration and Non-Discrimination - led by the National Commission for the Promotion of Equality (NCPE) and co-financed by European Union funds, Buttigieg emphasised the government's efforts to address this social issue and ensure that public sector employees are sensitive to and professionally equipped to handle cases of discrimination.

"Through this project led by the Commission, we heard the experiences of those being discriminated against simply because of the color of their skin - something completely unacceptable. The government's investment, including specialized training for public officials, demonstrates the importance we place as a country on this issue. Discrimination and racism have no place in our society," Buttigieg stated.

NCPE Commissioner Renee Laiviera noted that the SKIN project was based on solid research, including findings from the EU-MIDIS II survey by the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights and the 2023 Eurobarometer. These studies show a notable prevalence of discrimination in Malta against individuals of African descent and Muslim minorities, particularly in areas such as employment, education, services, and housing.

Laiviera further explained that the NCPE's work aimed to identify real-world barriers, raise awareness, and provide tangible tools to foster a more just and inclusive environment.