Preparations are underway for the introduction of panic alarms for victims of domestic violence deemed to be at ‘extreme danger’ following a formal risk assessment. The initiative is expected to be implemented by July.

The panic alarm is a small, portable device that allows victims to discreetly alert the authorities in emergency situations especially when calling emergency services is not possible.

Speaking during an information session held at the Domestic Violence Hub in Santa Luċija, Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Labour, Byron Camilleri said, “In November 2020, we established the first specialised police unit for domestic violence victims, and in April 2021, we launched the Victim Support Agency. These efforts, along with the Hub’s multidisciplinary approach, have helped Malta achieve the highest rate of gender-based violence reporting.We are now taking the next step by offering panic alarms to those most at risk, ensuring help can be reached even in the most critical situations.”

The panic alarm initiative is being implemented by the Victim Support Agency and is also included as a measure in the 2025 national budget. It was developed in collaboration with the Police Force, the Foundation for Social Welfare Services (FSWS), and co-financed by LESA.

Parliamentary Secretary Rebecca Buttigieg also addressed the session, stating, “Domestic violence exists in every society. As a government, we must tackle it seriously and structurally. While a completely violence-free society may not be immediately achievable, we must continue to provide victims with real tools for protection.”

Also present were Brian Farrugia, CEO of the Victim Support Agency, Alfred Grixti, CEO of FSWS, and Superintendent Sylvana Gafà.

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Ministry for European Funds and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme has announced a €6 million investment in sustainable transport for local councils, as part of Malta’s Climate Social Fund (CSF) strategy.

Speaking at a public consultation session with local councils, Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi highlighted the vital role of local councils in ensuring that investments reach communities in need and provide meaningful social support.

“Local councils play a crucial role in ensuring targeted investment reaches where it’s most needed and offers social benefits to many.” said Minister Zrinzo Azzopardi during the event.

The session formed part of the EU-wide consultation process linked to the Climate Social Fund. Present at the meeting were representatives from both local and regional councils, along with Jonathan Vassallo, Permanent Secretary for European Funds.

The Minister stressed the importance of such sessions to raise awareness of EU funding programmes and to give local councils the opportunity to contribute ideas and suggestions. He also commended all participants for their commitment to shaping a realistic and sustainable national plan.

Debbie Cachia, Chief Officer for Strategic Coordination and Planning for European Funds, presented key elements of the plan, with a particular focus on the transport sector. She introduced an initiative that will support the provision of local community transport services for vulnerable groups.

The initiative includes the deployment of electric vehicles and the necessary charging infrastructure, funded through an investment of approximately €6 million. In addition, an awareness campaign will be launched to promote the service within localities.

This initiative forms part of Malta’s broader commitment to a just green transition and comes under a total CSF allocation of €60.5 million for Malta for the period 2026–2032.

The public consultation remains open until 25 June 2025 at noon, and the public is invited to submit comments through publicconsultation.gov.mt or fondi.eu.

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