Youth is the period in life where one has outgrown childhood and is developing and entering adulthood. It is also the definition of being young and free.
Youth is that part in life when most of us experience strong determination and start achieving our life aspirations. Often, this is the phase in life where we believe more than ever in our dreams. Our persistence and resilience in facing any challenge that is presented to us trigger change and stimulates progress.
Seventy years ago, the Labour Party, during a time of change and regeneration, formed its first youth branch, at that time known as the Labour League of Youths. During these years we saw an evolution of both the Labour Party itself, as well as of its youth branch, today known as Labour Youth Forum (Forum Żgħażagħ Laburisti). I am proud to say that history shows that the Labour Youths were and still are an important pillar to our society, as they fight the status quo.
The Labour Youths were pivotal during challenging times for Partit Laburista, especially the times of conflict with the church, and the infamous interdett, as well as during the general strike of 28 April 1958.
Youth activists have managed to bring about social and economic change. In recent times, the Labour Youths campaigned to ensure that new civil rights are introduced, for instance we stood up during the divorce referendum. We have also campaigned in favour of equality and the introduction of LGBTIQ+ rights.
As youths, we truly want to make our voice heard. That is why we have also pushed for the lowering of the voting age and eligibility to contest in local council elections at the age of sixteen. Whilst the voting age for the MEP Elections and the General Elections have also been lowered to sixteen, I look forward to having young candidates, even 16-year-olds contesting for a Parliamentary Seat. This is what our democracy truly deserves – young leaders who are capable to implement a vision for our country.
We have also strived to ensure that persons with disability are included in our society. That is why we launched the ‘Empower Us’ campaign a few years back, which gathered a group of persons and proposed a number of measures, some of which have been implemented by the Labour Government; including a full time Commissioner for Persons with Disability.
The environment is also one of our priorities. We have discussed this subject and we look forward to launching more initiatives about this pertinent issue. The decisions we take today, will be impacting our future. Sustainability is the key.
Youths have the responsibility to make sure that our society is accountable for the decisions that are being taken. That is what defines us at our age. Youths have shaped our country’s future over the years, including Malta’s accession to the EU.
We live in an ever-evolving society, where today’s need might not fulfil tomorrow’s. We should always be open and present to understand what our society and economy requires. The youth are full of energy to challenge, seek a different approach and dream about what could be. Let the young inspire and influence today’s decisions for a better tomorrow. That is why I encourage youth participation and activism. Irrespective of the political affiliation – make your voice heard.
70 years ago our ancestors took a leap of faith by believing in their youths, they were visionaries then, we are believers today. Let us continue to be courageous, be proud of what we have accomplished, who we are today and continue to be Labour Youths.
Georvin Bugeja, President Forum Żgħażagħ Laburisti