A public consultation has been announced on a strategic plan for the volunteer sector. This aims to guide and strengthen the volunteer sector in Malta and Gozo over the next five years until 2030.
The announcement of this public consultation was made by the Minister for Inclusion and Volunteering Julia Farrugia, in the presence of the Chief Executive of the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector (MCVS) Mauro Pace Parascandolo and the Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations Jesmond Saliba.
The proposed strategy emphasises a better allocation of resources, such as human, physical and financial, while fostering the participation and engagement of volunteers and collaboration. This National Volunteering Strategy builds on the 2020 one, and reflects an evolving community where the volunteer sector faces continuous changes and new challenges.
The strategy focuses on four main pillars, which are capacity building, collaboration between all interested entities, civic participation, and the voice and visibility of the sector. Accordingly, the Government and MCVS seek to encourage collaboration between representative organisations (platforms), promote volunteering initiatives, and attract different age groups to volunteer work. The involvement of both young people and older individuals should ensure a balanced and dynamic contribution where experience meets enthusiasm.
During the launch of the consultation, Minister Julia Farrugia highlighted the Government’s determination to continue strengthening this sector and ensure its sustainability. “Strengthening the volunteer sector is a priority for us, as we believe that our society becomes more inclusive, fair and supportive when volunteering is supported and strengthened. This strategy will help us strengthen the volunteering infrastructure, provide more opportunities for volunteers of all ages, and ensure that their contribution is recognised and appreciated. We invite the public to participate in this consultation, so that together we can build a future where volunteering remains an important pillar in Maltese society.”
Gertrude Buttigieg, Chairperson of the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector stressed, “After the first strategy has just come to an end, now is the time to give the sector a long-term plan built on solid foundations. This is with a view towards greater collaboration, a strengthened voice and visibility within and for society.”
Mauro Pace Parascandalo said, “The aim is to continue to develop a strong volunteering culture, with support structures that increasingly facilitate high-quality services. Thus, such a strategy will not only be on paper but will come to life for the benefit of society and all citizens who benefit from us whether as volunteers, members of organizations or as beneficiaries.”
The full consultation document and feedback can be viewed here: https://maltacvs.org/strategy-consultation-2025-2030/ . The consultation will remain open until 25 April 2025.
