Same-sex marriage has been allowed in Malta since September 1, 2017, after the approval of legislation in Parliament on July 12, 2017. On August 1, 2017, President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca signed the measure into law. The law took effect the next day. In March 2014, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat announced that his government would legalize same-sex marriage if elected to power. The move was seen as a way for Malta to attract more tourists from gay-friendly countries such as Spain and France. However, following his election victory that month, Muscat stated that he had not made any commitments regarding same-sex marriage during his campaign. He also said that it was up to Parliament to decide how to proceed with the issue. No further action followed the announcement until July 2017 when Parliament passed the necessary laws permitting same-sex marriages. There have been no reports of LGBT people being persecuted in Malta. However, there are concerns about violence against women and children, especially those in vulnerable positions (such as refugees, migrants, and abused spouses). Women who seek help from police or prosecutors often face stigmatization. There are also reports of teachers and doctors refusing to treat LGBT patients or family members of deceased persons. Malta is classified as a Christian country with a large Catholic population. In addition to Church services, individuals may attend religious ceremonies with friends or relatives without violating cultural norms.