A service contract has been signed which will be introduced for the first time in Malta, a social service for sex workers called ‘Sex Workers Support Service’ between the Directorate for Human Rights (HRD) and the -Foundation for Social Welfare Services (FSWS). This will be a service for those who work in prostitution / who are sex workers.
This service contract was signed by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice, Equality and Governance Johan Galea, and by the Chief Executive of FSWS Alfred Grixti.
The signing took place in the presence of the Minister for the Family, Children’s Rights and Social Solidarity Michael Falzon and the Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms Rosianne Cutajar.
The Support Agency will be preparing this program which will ensure relevant assessment tools, individual work with clients, group work, community outreach, counseling, and even care plans so that these people have direction in the duration, not just immediate assistance.
Minister Michael Falzon said that although we are talking about minorities and small numbers, this Government is interested in even one case. That is why we need to create an environment that promotes dignity and gives everyone the same opportunities as possible.
Minister Falzon said that through this agreement, FSWS is continuing to consolidate the chain of services it offers in the community so that more people can continue to find the necessary and timely help.
Parliamentary Secretary Rosianne Cutajar said that when we talk about prostitution we must understand that there are two realities, on the one hand vulnerable people, on the other hand people who by personal choice want to do this work. She went on to say that whatever the situation or reason, she believes that everyone should be recognized, treated with respect, and protected with all the necessary help that one may need.
She went on to say that prejudice about sex workers makes it difficult for people involved in this work to seek help or use the necessary services, including to report abuse or violence against them. She also spoke about how today’s signing is a necessary and important step, both for sex workers and for our country. Through these services and initiatives we must send a clear message that everyone deserves to be protected and treated equally.
]The parliamentary secretary concluded by saying that she will continue to work hard to ensure that sex workers in Malta have the necessary protections and to eliminate all forms of prejudice against these people.
