The European Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated on the 3rd of December. The observance of the day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilise support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.

The Malta Federation of Organisations Persons with Disability (MFOPD), the national umbrella organisation for the disability sector, has highlighted that the Pillar of Social Rights is about better delivering on rights for citizens by building on 20 key principles.

The MFOPD is urging Ministers “to consider the points listed below when allocating their budget in the coming days.”

These principles within the European Pillar of Social Rights are designed to ensure every EU citizen enjoys fundamental social and economic rights, it said.

The MFOPD has looked into some of the key principles with the intention to make all authorities concerned “conscious of the actual situation of persons with disabilities here in Malta.”

Among others these are:

1. Education, Training, and Life-Long Learning: This principle ensures that every person has the right to quality education and training, promoting opportunities for lifelong learning to keep up with changes in the job market – still lacking behind

2. Equal Opportunities: Aims for inclusive participation, meaning everyone should have a fair shot at employment, education, and participation in social life, without facing discrimination – still not the case

3. Help to Get a Job: Individuals have the right to assistance in finding employment or setting up their own business, with a focus on easing entry into the workforce – still not working smoothly

4. Flexible and Long-Lasting Employment: Workers are entitled to fair treatment, workplace safety, and access to training to support job security and personal growth – still not achieved

5. Protection from Extreme Poverty: Every individual should have the essentials to live, ensuring basic living standards are met for all – living independently is still unaffordable for most

6. Support for Those with Insufficient Income: Those who struggle financially should receive additional government assistance to cover basic needs and services – some persons with disabilities are still struggling

7. Support for People with Disabilities: This principle emphasises the rights of individuals with disabilities to receive support that enables them to live with dignity and participate fully in society – some persons with disabilities are still struggling

8. Right to Housing: Ensures access to affordable, quality housing for all, which is a fundamental aspect of a stable and dignified life – this is one of the issues hindering persons with disabilities to live independently

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