For the sixth year running, my team and I at the Nationalist Party have organized a campaign to amplify the voices of those who often go unheard. By creating a platform for people to share their experiences, we aim to bring injustices to light and take the first step toward addressing them. 

This year's events, starting on the 17th of February, include visits to the Corradino Correctional Facility and the Clergy Home, where we will honor resident priests with small gifts and letters of gratitude for their lifetime contributions to social justice. The Church, as a pioneer in this area, deserves recognition for its role in promoting fairness and compassion. 

On Thursday, the 20th of February, we will mark Social Justice Day with a plenary conference led by the Speaker of the House, Dr. Anglu Farrugia. 

We'll wrap up the campaign on Friday, the 21st of February, with a social event recognizing three remarkable individuals from different fields who have quietly dedicated their lives to building a fairer, more equal society. 

Throughout this week, we want to spotlight the stark contrast between those enduring hardship and those who unjustly claim a far larger share of society's resources than they need. This imbalance shows how far we are drifting from the principles of fairness and humanity. 

We must not overlook the struggles of foreign workers in Malta, whose difficulties are often downplayed. Many of these workers face unjust treatment, precarious jobs, and even homelessness when they fall on hard times. Are we treating them fairly? Or are we exploiting them? 

It's disheartening that those who mistreat foreign workers often quote Christ's words: "I was a stranger, and you welcomed me." While it's true that foreign workers should adapt to our culture, we must never abuse them or treat them as second-class citizens. 

What about ex-prisoners who want to rebuild their lives after serving their sentences? Will we continue to judge and condemn them? Will we give them a fair chance in the workforce? NGOs do crucial work to support these individuals and their families, but our society needs a shift in mentality to truly promote rehabilitation and reintegration. 

These people are victims of an economy that crushes entire sections of society underfoot. 

Our mission remains clear: putting people at the centre and ensuring everyone has a fair chance to succeed. That means tearing down the barriers that divide us and creating a society rooted in equality, inclusivity, and human rights, where everyone gets what they rightfully deserve. We must also recognize individuals' talents and place them in roles where they can contribute meaningfully to the common good. 

In the end, why are we here if not to serve humanity? Even small actions taken from home can move us toward greater social justice. But to achieve meaningful change, we need full collaboration on every level. Let's work together to build a society that treats everyone with dignity, respect, and fairness.

Ivan Bartolo is a Nationalist Party MP and the party's spokesperson for Social Accommodation, the Fight against Poverty, Social Exclusion, and pensions.