NGOs and DPOs in the disability sector need to work closer together so that the sector can have a stronger and more cohesive voice, said CRPD Commissioner Samantha Pace Gasan at the Annual Conference held on Friday.
The conference, titled ‘A Stronger Voice for Disability,’ was held on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
NGOs and DPOs working in the disability sector were invited to participate and voice their opinions and ideas.
Also present were the VO Commissioner Jesmond Saliba and representatives of the media as well as NGOs outside the disability sector to share insights and best practices.
Ms Pace Gasan went on to say that, ”we wanted to address the longstanding issue of fragmentation in the disability sector so that we can have a more cohesive and united approach.”
It was explained that for the past few months, she has been meeting the various NGOs and DPOs individually, to identify common issues and concerns.
During the conference panel and plenary discussions focused on how the sector can improve its advocacy and lobbying efforts, particularly with the media and various stakeholders.
Ms Pace Gasan also spoke about CRPD’s role as the national regulatory body for disability in Malta in relation to NGOs and DPOs.
She explained that, ”the aim is to start a discussion on how persons with disability can be better represented so that our realities can be conveyed to the various stakeholders and influence the drawing up of policies and services.”
Ms Pace Gasan concluded by saying that, ”we would also like to see a more effective grassroots movement that channels the energies of the sector, to ensure that policies and services are relevant and up-to-date according to the needs of persons with disability.”
Another conference with the same theme will be held in Gozo on the 10th of December.