Government has launched the first national strategy and action plan on gender mainstreaming.

Parliamentary Secretary for Reforms and Equality Rebecca Buttigieg launched the plan of action, with the aim of eliminating all forms of structural discrimination which still distinguishes between the sexes.

The strategy is based on eight main strategic objectives, which include the introduction of gender mainstreaming in the working world, and the fields of health and education.

Some of the main measures include the strengthening of research on a number of binaries as well as collection of statistics, reforms in the law that eliminate unnecessary differences based on gender, mentoring programs and training so that more women start working, and awareness and training campaigns for professionals to ensure that the services being provided are based on principles of equality and gender mainstreaming.

An inter-ministerial committee will be set up in order to carry out joint work between all the ministries concerned.

This will be led by the Gender Mainstreaming Unit within the Human Rights Directorate, who will also be responsible for monitoring and implementing the strategy.

Buttigieg said that this strategy continues to build on the commitment government has already made with regards to equality over the years, as well as in the PL electoral programme.

“The 2023 Budget shows that government is giving certainty and stability even in the field of equality. This government has the most credentials in helping Maltese society reach this goal. Faced with injustices and particular realities, we have always responded with action,” she said.

Buttigieg said that government is showing commitment to strengthening the role of women in Maltese society.

The strategy will be coming into force after an extensive public consultation with the stakeholders in the sector.