Malta

Malta has no sodomy laws; however sex with minors is punishable if the minor himself/herself or his/her parents file a complaint with the police. The age of sexual consent is 18. Malta's recent inclusion into the EU has promoted some improvements, such as the introduction of new regulations against sexual orientation discrimination in the workplace. These resolutions however still fall short of the full implementation the corresponding European Directives. Further gay-friendly legislation do not exist as yet. There is no partnership/civil union law, or legislation protecting sexual minorities for example. On the social level however, things have been improving. Malta now has an active gay lobby and visibility of gay issues in the media is on the increase and is generally given positive coverage. Incidents of gay bashing are almost non-existent and the harassment on the basis of sexual orientation is also minimal.