The Maltese government said this morning that it welcomed the upgrading of Malta to Tier 2 in the Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report published by the US State Department.
The report launched by Hilary Clinton, recognises the intensification of effort on the part of the Maltese government as well as the positive outcomes that have been obtained as a result.
The report makes reference to several positive developments achieved under the direct coordination of the Carm Mifsud Bonnici during his term as Minister for Justice and Home Affairs.
Among the commended action, the report refers to the convening of the Anti-Human Trafficking Monitoring Committee which oversees the efforts by relevant stakeholders in the field of trafficking in persons. The establishing of a Stakeholder Taskforce and the drawing up and financing of the national anti-trafficking action plan as well as the reorganisation of the Police Vice Squad, which now has a Unit dedicated to Prostitution and Human Trafficking cases, were also recognised positively. The report also makes reference to the investigation of potential human trafficking cases which led to the prosecution of four alleged offenders in a sex trafficking case. During this reporting period, as stated in the TIP report, in depth training situation simulation exercises were also held for governmental and NGO stakeholders in the field.
Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, reacting to the publication of the report, thanked Dr Mifsud Bonnici for his direct and valid input towards Malta's success in this sphere.
"The Maltese Government is already taking action with a view to implementing the recommendations made in this TIP report, such as strengthening of efforts to identify victims, the development of formal victim identification guidelines as well as the strengthening of partnerships with key NGOs."
The Prime Minister thanked all those who have contributed towards the concerted effort which led to this improvement, and augured that the sustained effort in this field continues to prove Malta's ability and willingness to shoulder its international role and responsibilities.