Teaming Up against Poverty

There is no need to travel to Africa in order to witness poverty. It may be present, though not in the graphical sensationalist proportions seen in Niger, just a turn away from home. In fact, in Malta, analysts estimate that 18% of the population lives just above, on, or below the poverty line. This means that one in every six Maltese citizens is experiencing difficulties in coping with life.

Difficulties may take the form of an unemployed on unemployment benefits, or an old person not managing to live off his pension and even worse living in solitude. Also a significant number of people in Malta are still living in degrading sub-standard housing when nearly one of every four houses in Malta is left vacant. All this means that war on poverty in Malta is not won yet.

This is why the Government and Civil Society are to continue striving to fight poverty in all its senses. The central government, together with local governments and NGOs, is to step up its efforts in ensuring a dignified life for all citizens. Social Cohesion is an aim to be taken up by everyone. The Lisbon Agenda, Europe’s strategy for a better economy, society and environment is also to be interpreted in social and environmental terms and not only in economical terms.

The Millennium Development Goals, which representatives of the Maltese Government will be discussing next week at the UN General Assembly in New York, also apply to Malta. Though Malta has registered great social progress in the past, and today enjoys an acceptable standard of living, every citizen shall continue striving to guarantee greater environmental sustainability, a better and more sustainable healthcare system and a greater literacy rate. Moreover a culture based upon solidarity to those in need shall continue to be fostered through effective partnership with civil society organisations.

This is why, on the eve of such an important world event, I believe in greater care within the community for all those who are in need. Furthermore, I think the Maltese government should work harder in networking with all Mediterranean countries, especially with those on the African side of the Sea to reduce poverty and inspire development – the kind of development that ensures a humane life for all.