Malta Ranks 12th Safest Country in the World, Government Announces Major Security Investments

November 08 2025 08:08:45 by PCLMedia

Malta has been ranked the 12th safest country globally in the latest *World Justice Project Rule of Law Index*, confirming its position among the world’s most secure nations.

According to the index, Malta has made significant strides in reducing crime, with rates falling from 46 cases per 1,000 people in 2004 to 30 per 1,000 today. The trend continued through 2024, which saw a further decline.

Minister for Home Affairs, Security, Reforms and Equality Byron Camilleri hailed the ranking as a testament to years of sustained investment and reform.

> “A safe Malta — a Malta that gives you peace of mind. These are not just words; they are guarantees we give to our families,” he said. “Security is not only about law and order; it’s about trust — trust between citizens and the disciplined bodies that serve them.”

Strong Rule of Law and Low Violence

In the *Rule of Law Index*, Malta also ranks 31st globally. Breaking down the figures, the island performs particularly well in areas such as non-violent dispute resolution and civil peace. Malta ranked 3rd worldwide in terms of people not resorting to violence to settle personal grievances and 60th in limiting civil conflict.

Regionally, Malta places 7th out of 31 European countries, just behind Hong Kong (10th) and the United Arab Emirates (11th), but ahead of Austria (13th) and Estonia (14th).

Record Funding for Security and Enforcement

Speaking at a press conference, Minister Camilleri announced a major increase in security sector funding as part of the 2026 Budget, with recurrent spending set to rise from €100 million in 2012 to €280 million.

The police force will benefit from a €6 million investment to modernise its information systems, improving efficiency and data analysis. Additionally, €9 million has been allocated for new and upgraded police stations in Paola, Mosta, Sliema, Qormi, and Rabat (Gozo).

The government will also expand the CCTV network in key areas including Buġibba, Marsa, and Paola, complementing existing systems in Paceville. The Civil Protection Department will receive new firefighting vehicles, aerial search equipment, and upgrades to its Floriana and Gozo stations.

Camilleri stressed that investment in infrastructure must be matched by investment in personnel.

> “Why would it be worth investing in tools, buildings, and uniforms if we don’t invest in our best resource — our workers?” he said.

New sectoral agreements for disciplined forces, including Civil Protection officers, are also in the pipeline following recent accords for police, soldiers, and correctional services employees.

A Safer Nation, A Stronger Future

Minister Camilleri said Malta’s strong economic performance enables the government to continue investing in security, families, and the nation’s future.

> “We can talk about the future because our policy is to translate a strong economy into better lives for families — into the future of our children,” he added.

Camilleri also celebrated the ranking on social media, describing it as the result of “the lowest crime rates in recent years.”

Maltese Citizens More Concerned About EU Security

Meanwhile, a Flash Eurobarometer survey found that Maltese citizens are more concerned about the EU’s security than the European average.

In Malta, 21% of respondents said they were *very concerned* and 54%* were *somewhat concerned* about EU security over the next five years — compared with the EU average of 18% and 48% respectively.

When asked about the EU’s main challenges, 48% of Maltese respondents cited both the war in Ukraine and irregular migration, followed by cost of living (35%) and climate change (30%).

As for the EU’s strengths, Maltese respondents highlighted respect for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law (39%), solidarity between member states (35%), and the EU’s economic and trading power (34%).

When ranking priorities for EU action, Maltese citizens pointed to irregular migration (42%), the war in Ukraine (32%), environment and climate change (32%), and security and defence (28%).

Despite these concerns, the majority of respondents remain optimistic about the EU’s direction: 58% are confident in the EU economy and 62% in its democratic strength over the next five years.

In summary, Malta continues to consolidate its reputation as one of the world’s safest countries — combining effective law enforcement, a strong rule of law, and public trust in its institutions.