Immigration detention in Malta

Malta is the most densely populated country in the European Union and has one of the highest concentrations of refugees in the world. Although at one time it served as a key destination for migrants and asylum seekers crossing the Mediterranean Sea en route to Europe, increased efforts to interdict boats have led to a sharp decline in irregular arrivals. In 2015 the country revised several key policies, including ending mandatory detention and adopting new detention measures at initial reception sites.