Ten years ago, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability (UNCRPD) came into force at the European Union level. It has led to major changes in how the rights of persons with disability are dealt with at European, international and national levels.

The Malta Federation of Organisations Persons with Disability (MFOPD) supports the European Disability Forum’s (EDF) statement that “It is time to make sure laws are adopted, laws are enforced, people are empowered and funding is invested”.

Helena Dalli, the European Commissioner for Equality declares: “Our ambitions will require everyone’s commitment. The (EU Disability) strategy will be the point of reference for the EU, all governments, social partners, civil society and the private sector. It will make it easier to work together on our commitments, including in dialogue and partnership with persons with disabilities. It will ensure that persons with disabilities can participate equally in all areas of life. 

Our commitment and action in this area of policy will be another important step towards a Union of Equality. I will work closely with all EU member states to make the EU a model of inclusion, accessibility and human rights.

Nothing about persons with disabilities should happen without their involvement. They will be part of the dialogue and part of the process.”

MFOPD is the national umbrella organisation for the disability sector. It is the voice of approximately 37,000 persons with disability in the Maltese islands. It has 33 enrolled member organisations all working within the disability sector.

 

Marthese Mugliette

MFOPD, president