Government & Valletta Cruise Port Partner To Tackle Human Trafficking

The Government and Valletta Cruise Port have signed an agreement to establish a strategic partnership and strengthen cooperation on initiatives aimed at preventing human trafficking. The agreement was signed to coincide with European Anti-Trafficking Day and forms part of the national strategy developed by the Directorate for Human Rights within the Parliamentary Secretariat for Equality and Reforms.

Parliamentary Secretary Rebecca Buttigieg explained that the agreement provides a structured framework for collaboration, with a particular focus on training Valletta Cruise Port staff. The training will help employees to identify passengers who may be at risk of becoming victims of human trafficking and to respond in a safe and effective manner to prevent any abuse of vulnerable individuals.

The agreement also includes the development of a joint awareness campaign at the port terminal, offering information on support services available to victims. In addition, Standard Operating Procedures will be created to guide port employees on how to act in suspected cases of human trafficking, ensuring that the response prioritises the welfare of potential victims.

Parliamentary Secretary Buttigieg stated that the agreement will facilitate the sharing of information, allowing authorities to identify travel patterns that may indicate a higher risk of trafficking. This will support and strengthen the national response to this serious crime.

Valletta Cruise Port Chief Executive Stephen Xuereb said the agreement reflects the company’s commitment to social responsibility and its ongoing vigilance against abuse within its terminals. He added that the partnership with the Directorate for Human Rights will ensure that the port terminals remain both secure entry points to the country and safe spaces for victims of human trafficking.

The Directorate for Human Rights has also established similar arrangements with Malta International Airport.

#MaltaDaily