Recognition to persons and organizations that strengthen the inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities
The Ministry for Inclusion and Volunteering has announced the opening of nominations for the 2026 Just Society Award, which recognises the work of individuals and organisations that make a difference in the lives of persons with disabilities and contribute towards a more inclusive and accessible society.
This award celebrates achievements and initiatives that strengthen the rights of persons with disabilities, remove barriers to their participation and create opportunities for independent living in the community. It is also an occasion to give visibility to good practices that can inspire others to make inclusion part of their daily work.
Present for this announcement were the Minister for Inclusion and Volunteering Julia Farrugia and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry Stephanie Rocco.
Nominations are open for five categories:
● Employer / Inclusive Company Award : recognizes the commitment towards the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the workplace, through equal opportunities, accessibility and practices that support their full participation.
● Award for an Employee / Staff Member who promotes Inclusion: pays tribute to those who, through their work and initiative, improve the lives of persons with disabilities and contribute towards a more inclusive environment.
● Award for Excellence and Inclusion in Sports : recognizes both the sporting achievements of persons with disabilities as well as the work of individuals, teams, clubs and organizations that create more opportunities for participation in sports.
● Award for Excellence and Inclusion in Arts and Culture : celebrates achievements and initiatives that enhance the accessibility, representation and participation of people with disabilities in artistic and cultural life.
● Non-Governmental Organisation for Inclusion Award : recognises voluntary organisations that make an exceptional contribution towards inclusion. Organisations from any sector, not just those working directly in the field of disability, can be nominated for this category.
The Ministry encourages the public to nominate individuals and organisations whose work deserves this recognition. Each nomination should demonstrate with clear examples the positive impact on persons with disability and the contribution towards their participation in economic, civic and social life.
Minister Julia Farrugia explained how “the progress of our country is also measured by how much a person with a disability can choose how to live, work and participate in their community. As a Government, we have the responsibility to strengthen rights and ensure that these translate into real opportunities. The Just Society Award recognizes those who help us achieve this goal through their daily work. I encourage the public to nominate those who are removing obstacles and opening doors for persons with a disability, because this work deserves to be known and appreciated.”
Nominations will be evaluated by a panel, which will consider their relevance to the selected category, the impact of the work carried out and the commitment to the rights of persons with disabilities.
Nominations close on Monday, 2 November 2026, at noon, with nominations received after this time not being considered.
The form and guidelines are available at www.inkluzjoni.gov.mt and completed forms should be sent to skemi.miv@gov.mt , where one can also request further information or assistance.
