The non-governmental organisation Mid-Dlam għad-Dawl has marked its 30th anniversary, commemorating three decades of work dedicated to the rehabilitation of prisoners and the reintegration of ex-inmates into society.

At a conference celebrating the milestone, Minister for Social Policy and Children's Rights Michael Falzon announced that the government will be more than doubling its financial support for the foundation. The increased funding will go towards expanding aftercare and community services, as well as providing more residential beds for individuals benefitting from the organisation's support.

Minister Falzon said the agreement between his ministry and Mid-Dlam għad-Dawl will be extended, reflecting the government's confidence in the organisation's work. "We will be paying for more beds and increasing aftercare services to continue helping individuals and families who have benefited from this support," he said.

Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment Byron Camilleri also praised the NGO's work, particularly its focus on family relationships. Over the past two and a half years, 520 sessions involving 58 prisoners have been held, while 94 children participated in the 'Jien u Int' programme, which helps inmates maintain contact with their families. Additionally, the 'Locked Out' initiative facilitated more than 2,600 therapy sessions involving inmates, their families, or both together.

The organisation has also been behind the Dar bla Ħitan project, which enabled over 100 families to visit loved ones in an environment designed to promote connection and rehabilitation.

Minister Camilleri highlighted the government's financial support for such efforts, which includes €1.1 million allocated for the opening of a halfway house in Vittoriosa and €500,000 to cover the costs of professionals providing counselling and support services.

"The government remains committed to victims of crime, but we are equally determined to support organisations that help break the cycle of social exclusion by encouraging inmates to address the root causes of their actions," Minister Camilleri stated.

Chairperson of Mid-Dlam għad-Dawl, George Busuttil, reflected on the progress made over the last three decades. He said the organisation has played a central role in transforming the local prison system and lowering the rate of recidivism. Busuttil emphasised that rehabilitation benefits not only the individual, but society as a whole.

Founded in 1993, Mid-Dlam għad-Dawl has become a key partner in Malta's correctional and social welfare landscape. As it enters its fourth decade, the organisation continues to advocate for restorative justice and long-term support for those working to rebuild their lives after incarceration.