A youth conference was held in Parliament on Friday, as a platform to hear youths’ voices and participation in local government.

The conference,which was presided over by Speaker Anglu Farrugia, was organized by the Parliamentary Secretariat for Local Government Alison Zerafa Civelli in collaboration with Parliament and the Organizing Committee for the 30th Anniversary of the establishment of Local Councils in Malta and Gozo.

The primary objective of the conference was to provide young people with the opportunity to actively participate in the commemorative program of the 30th Anniversary.

A platform was given to youths to voice their opinions and individual perspectives on two main topics: “The Importance of Youth Presence in Local Councils” and “Envisioning the Future of Local Government.”

Minister for Local Government Owen Bonnici spoke about the pivotal role of local councils in community engagement and governance.

He spoke the importance of providing effective and efficient services to residents while ensuring that their voices and concerns are heard.

“The provision of effective and efficient services to our residents remains a crucial goal, as we continue to address the challenges ahead and build a stronger, more vibrant, and inclusive Malta for all its residents,” Bonnici said.

Zerafa Civelli said that young people are pioneers for social progress and that their influence can contribute to a meaningful and holistic transformation for local government.

“This government has always had absolute confidence in the Maltese and Gozitan youth, and following the introduction of the Vote-16, this government will see young people between the ages of 16 and 17 able to take on the roles of Mayors,” Zerafa Civelli said.

She said that in the coming weeks, Parliament will debate the second reading of the draft law on amendments to the Local Councils Act, which will allow young people under 18 to contest and be elected in Local Council elections and assume the roles of Mayor or Deputy Mayor.

Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research, and Innovation Keith Azzopardi Tanti said that local councils are an extension of the work carried out by government.

“If it weren't for the dedicated work of Local Councils, we wouldn't be able to efficiently and effectively serve the residents. As a former Mayor of Pietà, I know how important local councils are to residents and how essential they are not only as a platform for residents but also for those who aspire to excel in politics.”