Minister for Equality and Civil Rights Rosianne Cutajar has emphasised the importance of systematically integrating equality and human rights into policymaking, public services and government initiatives.
Speaking during a meeting of the Interministerial Committee for the Strengthening of Human Rights, Minister Cutajar thanked representatives from the various ministries for their commitment, describing them as the link between national policy and the practical work carried out daily by ministries and public entities.
The Interministerial Committee for the Strengthening of Human Rights serves as a coordination mechanism between ministries, supporting the integration of human rights and equality perspectives across all areas of government activity. Through representatives appointed by each ministry, the committee facilitates the exchange of information, monitors measures requiring cooperation between multiple ministries or public entities, identifies challenges and promotes the development of effective solutions.
Minister Cutajar explained that this work cannot be carried out by a single ministry or by the Directorate for Human Rights alone. She called for stronger collaboration between ministries, particularly in areas where national measures require joint contributions and effective coordination.
The aim, she said, is to ensure that public policies better reflect the diverse needs and experiences of the population.
“We must see this committee not merely as a forum where we report on what has been done, but also as a space where we work together to strengthen and implement the measures set out in national strategies. The success of our plans must be measured by the tangible difference we make in people’s lives,” Minister Cutajar said.
She urged committee members to continue acting as active promoters of equality and human rights within their respective ministries by putting forward ideas, identifying areas for improvement and strengthening cooperation throughout the public administration.
The meeting reaffirmed the importance of a coordinated, government-wide approach to ensuring that equality and human rights principles are reflected in public policy and translated into meaningful improvements in people’s everyday lives.
