Equal opportunities

“There needs to be a fundamental shift in the way societies view women in government, one that does not see them as mere seat-fillers or stats on a chart, they must be viewed as a vital contributing factor to the betterment of the world.” ― Aysha Taryam,

There is no denying that the last 12 months have been tough. The pandemic has wreaked havoc across the globe. It has disrupted our daily living to such an extent that all countries have to rethink and remodel their socio-economic systems in order to progress and survive in this new reality.

In Malta we are fortunate to have a sound national health system and a strong economy - all thanks to the Labour government who saw to this with foresight, astuteness and long-term planning. Over the last twelve months in fact, this government intervened courageously to mitigate the impact of the virus on our health, boosted the economy with mini-budgets and economic incentives and still went on implementing the electoral manifesto. This was our pact with the overwhelming majority of the people in 2017. Nothing will stop us! Despite the hurdles we will continue to push forward our vision with loyatly and determination. This is what defines us as a Labour government - responsibility and accountability - two cornerstones on which every decision taken at government level has proven to be the only way forward.

Genuine partnership

Article four of The Universal Declaration of Democracy signed way back in 1997 highlights that the achievement of democracy presupposes a genuine partnership between men and women in the conduct of affairs in society in which they work in equality and complimentarity, drawing mutual enrichment from their difference.

Women’s participation in politics has been top of Labour’s agenda since its early years as a party. In the mid-1940’s female suffrage was introduced together with the right for women to contest the general elections. The Labour Party was the prime mover for female emancipation and consistently fielded women in almost all general elections. It was the party that proposed initiatives for more women participation in the workforce as a measure that would bring economic growth.

Women in history

Labour continues to push women forward. Labour believes in a well debated concept that the seed of democracy lies in the principle that the legitimacy of the power to make decisions about people’s lives, their society and their country should derive from a choice by those who will be affected. For many centuries the basis of this legitimacy was limited and many were excluded from making a choice - particularly women.

In today’s world, patriarchy, subordination of women, and the perception that decision-making institutions are reserved for men has no place in our society. The public domain is not about the relationship between men and government. It is about citizens and government - equally that is, men and women. The rights guaranteed in law and the political rhetoric of good governance and participatory democracy looks wonderful on paper but should be put in practice.

Labours commitment

The Labour government is doing its utmost to place women on equal footing with men on all levels. Last week in fact, the Second Reading of legal changes intended to increase the under-represented gender by a maximum of 12 seats passed with flying colours. Of note is what our Prime Minister said after the passing of this bill:

‘The Labour government truly believes in equality and is always in favour of progress, such as giving women the right to vote and appointment of females in various high-ranking positions. There is no doubt that we believe in women being leaders in good governance.’

I am proud to be part of a government that embraces equality between the sexes in a concrete and tangible manner. As a woman, the introduction of a bill that will eventually be written in our constitution is a proud and historic moment to cherish. The right for women to vote was a first step in the right direction way back in 1947. Female empowerment in the socio-economic fabric of our society slowly but surely picked up, particularly in the last eight years of Labour governance.

Balanced representation

A balanced female representation in parliament is a very important step that will further strengthen women’s say in matters that concern us as one cohesive society. I encourage young girls and women to grasp the opportunities given to them by this important legislative measure.

With more than 18 years of experience in Parliament, my advice to women and girls who wish to contribute politically, is to never give up, stand up to your convictions and aim high. Always perform your duties with the spirit of service, responsibility and a true belief that we are all equal, as men and women. With our participation and good intentions it is my belief that our society will continue to evolve and flourish.

“The Labour Party was the prime mover for female emancipation and consistently fielded women in almost all general elections. It was the party that proposed initiatives for more women participation in the workforce as a measure that would bring economic growth.”

Persons with disability

On Labour’s books and vision, inclusivity is a must. Having spoken about female participation in parliament my thoughts go to persons with disabilities, or rather with different abilities. The right to participate equally in public and political processes to be voters, candidates and elected leaders - is very important for these persons. Engaging in public life through political parties and parliament is an empowering opportunity for women and men with disabilities to voice their concerns and opinions and take the lead on issues that are important to them in particular and eventually become leaders themselves. It is indeed a huge step forward in making these collaborators an integral part of the legislative body for the whole nation.

Participation and engagement in political processes create opportunities for them in institutions that will remove barriers and render society more inclusive and accessible, and truly representative of all citizens. The Labour government truly believes in this concept and strives to engage and encourage persons with disabilities to participate on all levels in matters that concern them both on a personal and on a national level.

Oliver Scicluna

Last Monday the Maltese Parliament welcomed Oliver Scicluna as a Member of Parliament - a person with disabilities. After years of discussion about their representation in parliament, it was the Labour government that had the honour of introducing Oliver, a new Labour MP with different abilities. My friendship with Oliver Scicluna goes back a long time. Since I started serving in cabinet in 2014 I recognised the various abilities Oliver is endowed with and nominated him as Chairman of the Commission for Persons with Disability. Two years later I also nominated him as the first Commissioner for the rights of persons with disability.

I worked with him closely during my tenure in office and have always admired his vision and determination, including his academic studies which he completed with flying colours. I am convinced that with Oliver as a colleague in Parliament, the Labour Government will continue to prove how committed we are in creating an equitable and just society where everyone has equal rights and the right to participate in the highest institution of the state. Well Done Oliver! You will motivate us further to continue building our society where equal opportunities are accessible to one and all!