“The grassroots approach in the elimination of segregation and the promotion of de facto equality is the logical way forward.”

This was the basis of a training programme on equality issues for good governance in the public service in Malta and Cyprus, which was held at the Westin Dragonara Resort over the past three days.

The training programme was organised by the National Council for the Promotion of Equality (NCPE), with the support and expertise of the Commonwealth Secretariat.

Addressing participants, NCPE executive director Sina Bugeja urged them to keep in mind that the focal point should be equality for both women and men.

The training programme merges the Commonwealth principles, as well as those of the EU, where equality is one of the main priorities, said Ms Bugeja.

Participants from Cyprus and Malta were brought together to build a network and to provide training based on effectiveness and integrity, which features a shift from a national dimension to a regional one.

Family and Social Solidarity Minister Dolores Cristina also addressed those participating in the training programme, saying that the issue of good governance is particularly relevant in terms of efficiency, inclusiveness and respect for every citizen.

She said that respecting fundamental human rights entails that differences – natural or inherited – be respected.

“Diversity implies that preservation of individuality, and differences should be a source of enrichment rather than conflict. But diversity can shackle unity when people resist it and put pressure on others to alienate those who, according to their standards, do not comply with the norm,” said Mrs Cristina.

She said the Commonwealth, as a network of governments serving two billion people in 53 countries, acts as a vehicle for the promotion and achievement of peace, democracy, equality and good governance.

The Commonwealth is a catalyst for global consensus-building and a source of assistance for sustainable development and poverty eradication, said the minister. She added the government is committed to develop a public service that is sensitive to equality and tackles problems that may fuel intolerance.

“The legislation already in force in Malta, together with various legal notices and administrative measures, bear testimony to the importance the government gives to these issues, but promotion and acceptance of a diverse society calls for action from different social actors and stakeholders,” she said.