University dean calls for plans to tackle solitude, homelessness in 100 ideas for the social sector

A well-founded plan to address issues such as homelessness and solitude should be set up, the dean of the University of Malta’s social wellbeing faculty has proposed.

The suggestion formed part of 100 proposals drawn up by Professor Andrew Azzopardi, with the aim of improving Malta’s social sector.

Azzopardi said that homelessness is a huge problem, thus a national policy is needed to ensure that no one is left behind. Meanwhile, solitude is also an issue as can be seen in an extensive report and from empirical research made by the Faculty for Strengthening Society, which shows that 44% feel alone.

“It is time for that figure to be addressed as soon as possible,” he said.

Azzopardi said the social sector must be run by insiders in this field as there aren’t enough people in key positions who embrace ethics, training and social vision.

The Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector (MCVS) should play a more central role and give a stronger voice to volunteers. MCVS should also be a federation but at the same time continue providing not only financial resources and spaces but be the forum where the social sphere has a collective voice. In addition, the Commissioner of voluntary organisations should evolve from a mere regulatory body to one that weighs and drives the sector, Azzopardi said.

The Commissioners should be accountable to Parliament and not become the ‘property’ of the Minister.

A social road map should also be prepared, as Azzopardi highlighted that the social field neither knows where it is nor where it wants to go.

Azzopardi noted that the social field has become fragmented under several different ministries, such as the Ministry for Equality, Research and Innovation; Ministry for Justice and Governance; Ministry for Solidarity and Social Justice, Family and Children’s Rights; Ministry for Social Housing and so on. He proposed an audit to be carried out to remove this fragmentation, as according to Azzopardi ‘it does not bear fruit.’ The Ministry for Social Policy should lead this sector.

The creation of more NGOs should be encouraged as they represent part of a cause and should not be looked at as a threat. An autonomous foundation should immediately be developed so that money given by the government is not directed to the association but falls under the responsibility of the foundation to allocate funds.

Azzopardi also proposed that more work needs to be done to reduce the misogyny that prevails in Malta.

The environment, which is synonymous with quality of life, also needs improvement.

“The sale of our land to those who have money and contacts is now reaching a level we have never seen before. The concept of ‘public’ should be central,” Azzopardi said.

He also said that there must be a plan to address the poverty and social exclusion that grips and oppresses so many people.

Schools should also become community centres for lifelong learning. Much has been done in this regard, but they need to be strengthened, he said.

In addition, Azzopardi said that a clear and transparent asylum policy should be set up and people should not remain in detention longer than permitted by law. Services must be provided to complement this process.

Among the 100 proposals, Azzopardi also proposed that abortion should not be made legal at all costs, and the use of marijuana is decriminalised but not legalised.

16-year-olds should also have the possibility to stand as candidates in a general election, whilst children should not be used during political or advertising campaigns, he said.

Government offices should provide job opportunities for prisoners and ex-prisoners within its entities. After a while, their criminal record should be cleared, except in cases of child abuse.

Azzopardi also proposed that an effort should be made to give every medicine for free and not be dependent on charity for certain medicines. Also, more work should be done to ensure that Maltese children are adopted (and fostered).

The field of mental health also needs to be addressed as there is a lack of services in the community, there is a need for more awareness as well as a need for a new hospital.