WORLD DAY AGAINST TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS: Malta's Initiatives for Awareness and Action
July 30th marks the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, commemorated through the United Nations’ Blue Heart Campaign. This year, the campaign focused on the theme "Leave No Child Behind in the Fight Against Human Trafficking." In alignment with this global initiative, Malta's Human Rights Initiatives Unit within the Human Rights Directorate organized a comprehensive Calendar of Awareness Raising Events and Activities on Human Trafficking from July 8th to 30th, titled the "23 Days of Anti-Human Trafficking Malta."
Screening of "SOUND OF FREEDOM
A key highlight of these activities was the screening of the film “SOUND OF FREEDOM,” based on the true story of trafficked children who were later rescued. This film resonated deeply with the year's theme. The screening, organized by CCIF as part of their contribution to the awareness initiatives, took place on July 27th, 2024, at the Spazju Kreattiv theatre in Valletta, attracting a significant audience.
Engagement with Youth: (In) Justice 4All Youth Exchange
Prior to the film screening, Ms. Lynn Chircop Faure, a Director within the Human Rights Directorate, addressed a group of young people from across Europe gathered at the Marsaxlokk Youth Centre for the (In) Justice 4All youth exchange. This event, coordinated by CCIF, aimed to raise awareness about human trafficking among young people. Ms. Chircop Faure engaged with the youth by answering their questions about the various forms of human trafficking prevalent in Malta, the country’s strategies to combat this crime, and the support systems available for survivors.
Discussion Points Covered by Ms. Lynn Chircop Faure:
1. Forms of Human Trafficking in Malta: Ms. Chircop Faure highlighted the different types of human trafficking that are found within Malta, providing real-life examples to illustrate the severity and complexity of the issue.
2. Malta's Response to Human Trafficking: She detailed the national efforts and legal frameworks in place to tackle human trafficking, emphasizing the collaboration between law enforcement agencies, NGOs, and international bodies.
3. Support for Survivors: The discussion also covered the various support services available for survivors of trafficking in Malta, including psychological support, legal aid, and rehabilitation programs.
Youth Exchange: The Courage To Be Liked: On the 18th, Soajo Echoes for Change, a dedicated partner in Portugal, successfully hosted the youth exchange program "The Courage to be Liked." This inspiring event empowered young individuals to become staunch advocates for mental health within their communities. Through an engaging curriculum, participants gained invaluable knowledge and skills, enabling them to support their peers and champion positive mental health practices. The venue's location, nestled in a serene mountainous region and surrounded by a national park, offered an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it the perfect setting for such a transformative experience. Our partners for this project are: Romania: Asociatia Cloud Five, Malta: CCIF, Greece: Youngsters Union, and St. Maarten: Creative Connects Youth. Special thanks are extended to Andreia, Lara, and Manuel, whose efforts were instrumental in making this learning opportunity a resounding success.
Final Awareness Event: Hiking from Dingli to Blue Grotto
Concluding the 23 days of activities, CCIF organized a hiking event from Dingli to Blue Grotto. This event not only promoted physical wellness but also served as a platform for participants to engage in discussions about human trafficking, share experiences, and raise awareness among the hiking community.
Malta's extensive and varied approach to the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons underscores the nation's commitment to combating human trafficking and supporting its victims. Through educational events, interactive youth exchanges, and community activities, Malta continues to foster a society that is well-informed and proactive in the fight against human trafficking.
