Malta Hosts First Global Meeting Of Social Ministers: Putting Children’s Rights And Protection First

Jul 1 2025

As part of Malta’s Presidency Programme of the Council of Europe, 50 delegations from countries around the world have attended this ministers’ meeting. The conference is focused on concrete action to prevent child sexual abuse and exploitation, with an emphasis on how to keep children safe and protect them effectively.

The second part of the discussion will focus on the legislation and policies needed to strengthen long-term prevention and protection of children, especially in light of new technological realities that continue to increase the risk of child sexual exploitation. These discussions take place against the backdrop of troubling realities, with one in five children in Europe estimated to have experienced sexual violence, while one billion boys and girls worldwide have suffered trauma that stays with them for many years. Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset expressed his satisfaction with how Malta organised this international meeting. “We have the laws; now we need strong implementation to face the pressures coming especially from technological tools such as Artificial Intelligence. In fact, AI-generated content involving sexual abuse increased by 380% in just one year.” stated the Secretary General.

Meanwhile, Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights Michael Falzon said this is an important day as they are discussing the protection of children, who are an integral part of today’s society and tomorrow’s generation. “We must always be there for everyone, especially the most vulnerable children. We have a duty to continue putting the voice and rights of children first, so that meaningful international action can eventually be taken.” said Minister Michael Falzon.

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Cruyff Reflects On Love Island Malta Journey

Jul 1 2025

In a heartfelt post, Cruyff took to social media to reflect on his Love Island Malta journey.

‘From the first day until the final moment in the programme, this experience was one that will remain in my heart forever’, said Cruyff.

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A post shared by cruyff grixti (@cruyffgrixti)

‘Placing second is something that makes me feel super proud, but the most important thing is that I exited the villa with true love.’

Thanking everyone who supported both him and Michela, he said that now, a new chapter begins.

‘Michela and I have started our relationship outside the villa. I didn’t win the programme, but I won in love and that, for me, is the biggest reward.’

‘And finally, congratulations to Matthew and Evelyn for their win. With loves of love, Cruyff.’

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Minister Anton Refalo Meets With The FAO Director-General

Jul 1 2025

Taking place in Rome, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, Anton Refalo, met with the Director-General of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Qu Dongyu, ahead of the 44th session of the FAO Conference of Agriculture Ministers.

During the meeting, the FAO Director-General praised Malta’s ongoing commitment to global food security efforts. He acknowledged Malta’s proactive involvement in FAO initiatives and its valuable contribution to global agricultural and food systems, particularly through the sharing of technical expertise and collaboration with Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Minister Refalo provided an overview of Malta’s agriculture, fisheries, and aquaculture sectors.

Discussions on agriculture highlighted Malta’s unique methodologies in managing water scarcity. The Director-General recognised Malta’s expertise in this area and emphasised that it should serve as a model for other countries facing similar environmental challenges.

The Minister also outlined the distinctive characteristics of agriculture in Malta, particularly on the island of Gozo. He focused on the challenges and opportunities related to agricultural produce from small islands and welcomed further collaboration with the FAO to strengthen sustainable development in these areas.

Minister Refalo also referred to Malta’s expertise in sustainable tuna production. He highlighted the country’s unique experience and technical proficiency in this field, which is further reinforced by Malta’s strategic location in the Mediterranean.

The positive meeting concluded with an agreement to enhance cooperation between Malta and the FAO, particularly in innovation, sustainable fisheries, and developing climate-resilient agriculture.

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1 Year Deferral Of Mandatory Skills Pass For Maltese & Eu Nationals

Jul 1 2025

The government has announced a one-year delay to the mandatory introduction of the Skills Pass for Maltese and EU nationals. Originally set to come into force on 1 January 2026, the new implementation date is now 1 January 2027.

The Skills Pass was launched in May 2024 as part of the Malta Tourism Strategy 2021–2030. It aims to enhance the quality of human resources in the tourism industry. Since its launch, more than 13,000 individuals working in catering and hospitality have gained accreditation through the scheme.

The programme is managed by the Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS) and has benefited from strong cooperation between ITS and key industry stakeholders. This collaborative approach has been crucial to its early success.

Following alignment with the recently introduced Malta Labour Migration Policy, the Skills Pass will remain compulsory for third-country nationals. However, its requirement for Maltese and EU nationals will now take effect in 2027 through Legal Notice 113 of 2025.

Over the next year, the government will continue working with industry partners to ensure the long-term success of the Skills Pass, with plans to explore its expansion into other sectors, supporting sustainable growth and a skilled workforce.

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