In an effort to fight human trafficking within its borders, Agenzija Appogg, under the Foundation for Social Welfare Services (FSWS), has intensified its efforts to assist individuals who have fallen victim to human trafficking.
In a statement on Friday, it was said that the agency is providing social support to 15 individuals, with four of them already relocated to alternative accommodations.
Since its inception in 2017, the agency has dealt with 81 cases of human trafficking.
The announcement was made during a conference organized by the FSWS, held on the International Day against Human Trafficking.
This year, the agency’s services have transitioned from a European funded project funded started being sustained by national funds.
Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights Michael Falzon said in a conference that everyone has the right to live in safety and security.
He said that government will continue vital work to identify and address situations of abuse effectively.
During the event, the collaborative efforts between the agency and various entities were highlighted, which worked together to provide comprehensive support to the victims.
The agency also seeks to increase public awareness on the subject, aiming to prevent further exploitation of vulnerable individuals.
The majority of cases assisted by Agenzija Appogg involve victims of sexual exploitation. Many of these individuals would be promised a stable employment which does not have anything to do with this work, but end up realising when they arrive in the country.
Several professionals from the sector participated in the conference, stressing the importance of increased training to identify potential human trafficking suspects, alongside the provision of psychological, social, and legal support to the victims.
Parliamentary Secretary for Reforms Rebecca Buttigieg and Parliamentary Secretary for European Funds Chris Bonett addressed the conference through video message.
