Press Release by the Ministry for Social Justice and Solidarity, the Family and Children’s Rights: A Social Vision for Malta 2035: shaping the future of our society

Reference Number: PR211272

Government has begun its work to build a social vision for the future with the concept of ‘A  Social Vision for Malta 2035: shaping the future of our society’. 

The process of creating the vision for the social sector  until 2035 has commenced. This process shall be built upon the principles of social justice and solidarity, and on the social wealth that was created throughout the past few years. It shall highlight various areas and a broad range of cohorts among whom: families, children, youths, older persons, those at risk of poverty, persons with disabilities, those with addictions problems and LGBTIQ+ persons.

Michael Falzon, Minister for Social Justice and Solidarity, the Family and Children’s Rights made the announcement during the first of a series of conferences throughout this week which shall discuss related themes in the area.

The Minister said that man is born to socialise and live in a community within society.

“ Therefore there is the need that everyone lives a life a decent and dignified life. Above all, a person should have the capacity to attain their potential even if they live in difficult social realities. We need to acknowledge that there are people with different abilities and it is important to have somebody who can see that those who are in need, are taken into account” stated Minister Falzon.

The Minister also spoke about the huge emphasis on granting a better quality of life made throughout the past eight years. This was done through the strengthening of pensions, social benefits, and other measures amongst which those that rewarded industriousness and others which further incentivised persons to enter the job market. This resulted in a reduction in the number of persons at risk of poverty and social exclusion, while easing social mobility.

This vision shall provide the necessary direction and shall create a basis for the development of various strategies  for the future of the social sector. Consultations with all stakeholders who in some way work in this sector shall also commence. This exercise is being carried out not just to give a better life but also to address the challenges faced by particular vulnerable groups who require further and more specific attention despite the improvements already made in the area.