The Body Shop and Agenzija Appogg against sex-trafficking

The Body Shop Malta has joined forces with Agenzija Appogg in a campaign to raise awareness about human trafficking and exploitation. This follows an international campaign started by The Body Shop to 'Stop Sex Trafficking of Children and Young People'.

This campaign offers the public a chance to "be involved and challenge the greatest human rights abuse of the 21st century", said The Body Shop Malta director Simone Mizzi at a recent press conference.

About 79 per cent of human trafficking involves children, young adolescents and women. "With these statistics available only from reported cases, these figures are probably only the tip of an ugly, great iceberg," Ms Mizzi continued.

By purchasing The Body Shop's 'Soft Hands, Kind Heart' hand cream, customers will be supporting Agenzija Appogg as €1 from the sale of each product will be donated to the agency. These funds will help Appogg strengthen its training and support services, and will assist it in disseminating information about trafficking of children and young people for sexual exploitation.

Foundation for Social Welfare Services CEO Sina Bugeja and Commissioner for Children Carmen Zammit commended The Body Shop Malta for embarking on this social initiative and encouraged other private entities to follow its example.

Agenzija Appogg, which forms part of the Foundation for Social Welfare Services, is the national social welfare agency for children, families and communities in need, offering over 25 specialised services in this field. Anyone suspecting acts of human trafficking, and victims, can report to the Police or call on Supportline 179.

For more information, visit www.thebodyshop.com/stop and www.appogg.gov.mt.