The Crisis Centre in the Directorate for Consular Services and Maltese Living Abroad focuses on reducing risks for Maltese citizens related to international travel by providing accessible online travel advice, information campaigns and engaging the public through informative outreach events.

Information is central to the Unit’s consular framework. Through up-to-date and accurate advisories along with general guidelines for navigating challenges encountered abroad while traveling.

Beyond awareness efforts towards safer travel practices, the Centre, through international cooperation provides consular assistance to Maltese citizens who find themselves caught up in major crises abroad. Furthermore, the Centre is responsible for assisting foreign nationals in Malta should they find themselves affected by a local crisis.

These duties are facilitated by continuous global monitoring, proactive information dissemination, and coordination with other European Union (EU) Member States to ensure effective, collective preparedness and action when crises arise.

Crises are understood to be unpredictable and disruptive events which are a threat to wellbeing and quality of life. Examples include natural disasters, conflicts and civil unrest. A key role of the unit in such events is working in tandem with Malta’s Embassies, High Commissions and Consulates abroad. Should a crisis occur in a country without a formal Maltese representation, the Centre liaises with other EU Member States to facilitate support for those affected.With the rise of global travel along with increasing travel to distant locations, the risk of Maltese travellers facing an emergency abroad grows. This makes the Unit’s work more crucial than ever, requiring a greater and constant readiness.

For more information on the Crisis Centre, visit ConsularPlus on consularplus.gov.mt