Minister for Housing and Lands Owen Bonnici reiterated Malta’s commitment to affordable housing and sustainable urban development during the United Nations General Assembly High-Level Meeting on the Mid-Term Review of the New Urban Agenda, held in New York.
In his address, Minister Bonnici described affordable housing as a foundation for dignity, well-being, opportunity and social cohesion. He observed that, ten years after the adoption of the New Urban Agenda, challenges related to housing, social inclusion, climate resilience and sustainable land use remain among the most important priorities at a global level.
The Minister highlighted Malta’s experience as one of the most densely populated countries in Europe, where limited land resources and demographic changes require long-term planning and policies that place people at the centre of decisions to build more sustainable communities.
He explained how the Maltese Government is continuing to strengthen its investment in housing through the Housing Authority, with measures including the provision of social housing, rental assistance schemes, support for first-time home buyers and specialised assistance for vulnerable individuals and families. These measures are helping thousands of families have access to adequate and affordable housing.
The Minister also referred to the Government’s work to provide housing opportunities to individuals and families who do not qualify for social housing but still encounter difficulties in entering the property market.
During his address, the Minister also highlighted Malta’s long-term vision, the Malta 2050 Vision, which places housing among the key pillars of economic prosperity, environmental sustainability and social cohesion. He also mentioned the national initiative ‘Id-Dar t’Għada’, which is helping to shape long-term policies that respond to the changing needs of young people, families, the elderly and vulnerable groups.
Minister Bonnici stressed that housing policy must continue to promote climate resilience, environmental sustainability and responsible land use, while ensuring equal access for all.
The Minister called for greater international cooperation, innovative funding mechanisms and stronger partnerships to accelerate the implementation of the New Urban Agenda.
“Access to adequate housing is more than a social goal – it is a foundation for dignity, opportunity, well-being and resilience. The homes we build today will shape the communities we will leave to future generations,” said Minister Bonnici.
He concluded by reiterating that Malta remains committed to sharing its experience and continuing to work with international partners to build more inclusive, resilient and sustainable communities for today’s and tomorrow’s generations.
