The Support Agency within the Foundation for Social Welfare Services (FSWS) continued to strengthen its commitment to combat human trafficking. This is through a comprehensive and holistic approach that prioritizes the welfare and support of all individuals affected by this reality.
Precisely on the International Day Against Human Trafficking, the FSWS organized a conference with the theme ‘Preventing human trafficking: Stopping the abuse before it starts’, which was attended by several stakeholders who discussed the best ways to help to the victims of this kind.
It was said that there are currently 17 people who are receiving help from the local human trafficking service. Through the Aġenzija Appoġġ, sessions are given to both professionals and victims. This is with the aim of increasing awareness, creating a safer environment for all individuals, and preventing future cases of exploitation.
The Support Agency also runs a home for victims of human trafficking, 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 welcomed 11 residents from different nationalities.
Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights Michael Falzon said that the Government committed to continue to strengthen the knowledge about the warning signs of human trafficking, by improving the communication among professionals, with the main priority remaining that of providing long-term support to individuals at risk.
The Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms Rebecca Buttigieg has announced that Malta will soon have the first national strategy with measures designed to combat human trafficking. She said that in the last three years, a lot of preparatory work was done with the help of experts from the Council of Europe which consisted of training public officials and awareness campaigns so that the strategy could be carried out and be more effective.
Parliamentary Secretary Buttigieg said that the Directorate of Human Rights within the Parliamentary Secretariat is running another awareness campaign about various forms of human trafficking to raise awareness about this organized crime which is needed even the -public cooperation to be fought.
If you need more information or specific resources on preventing and fighting human trafficking, call 22959000 or Supportline 179.
