describing it as an important step forward for civil society. “It is a legal framework aimed at giving recognition to the value of voluntary action in Malta,” it said.

It added that the role and functions of the Commissioner to be appointed by the Minister after consultation with the Social Affairs Committee of the House of Representatives had been more clearly defined. The Act recognises the legal powers of the organisations’ statute and the democratic appointment of members on the council. Another important aspect is the setting up of a Voluntary Organisations Fund.

The NCW said the next step, implementation, was crucial to ensure that the enrolment and registering procedures run smoothly and positively with the aim of encouraging higher participation, not least by young people in voluntary work, that has been the pride of Maltese society for so many decades