Malta makes 'significant efforts' in fight against human trafficking
US Department of State report improves Malta's ranking following more prosecutions, better victim protection
A report published by the US Department of State shows that Malta has improved its ranking in its fight against human trafficking highlighting “significant advances” in this sector.
The 2025 Trafficking in Persons report saw Malta’s ranking rising from Tier 2 Watchlist to Tier 2 which means that significant efforts have been made to comply with the US Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, even if it still does not fully meet the Act’s minimum standards.
The Malta Police said on Thursday this improvement in the ranking reflects an increase in the number of prosecutions of traffickers, including joint cases with financial crimes. It also follows the identification of, and greater assistance to victims including vulnerable children and asylum seekers as well as improved legal protection and support services for victims.
“We are keeping victims at the centre of our operations, strengthening collaboration with other partners, and continuing to invest in specialised training to protect those most at risk,” the Police said.
“While the fight against human trafficking is not yet won, this improved ranking confirms that Malta has made notable progress in this regard,” they added.
The police said they remain “committed to dismantling criminal networks and further strengthening our position in favour of victims”.
In its report, the US Department of State said that while global efforts to combat trafficking are “far stronger” now than they were in 2000, the anti-trafficking community must “seize opportunities to advance the movement”.
“Traffickers are creative and determined. The anti-trafficking community must continue to be even more creative, drawing on the determined spirit of those who launched the anti-trafficking movement as it presses onward into the next quarter century,” the report concluded.