Children share their Vision for Malta in 2050

Over a hundred children gathered at Esplora Interactive Science Centre for ‘Il-Ħolma għat-Tfal għal Viżjoni Malta 2050’ — a special event held as part of the national Malta Vision 2050 consultation process. The event provided a creative and inclusive platform for children to share their ideas and hopes for Malta they would like to grow up in.

The event was honoured by the presence of former President of Malta Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca and Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation Keith Azzopardi Tanti, who both engaged with the children and praised their insightful contributions.

Parliamentary Secretary Azzopardi Tanti emphasised the importance of including young people in shaping national policy, stating: “Today we’ve seen that children are not only capable of imagining a better Malta — they are eager to help build it. The Malta Vision 2050 process must reflect their creativity, their sense of justice, and their desire for a more sustainable, inclusive future. Their voices matter, and they deserve to be heard.”

Former President Marie Louise Coleiro Preca echoed this sentiment with a powerful call to action: “Our children are not just the leaders of tomorrow — they are active citizens today. Their ideas reflect the kind of Malta we should all strive for: greener, safer, and more inclusive. This initiative is a meaningful step toward intergenerational dialogue and shared responsibility. We must continue to empower our children to dream, to speak, and to shape the future of our nation.”

Roberta Albanese Dalli from the Malta Vision 2050 team remarked the intelligent and highly detailed feedback, which clearly shows our future relies on a strong foundation of the upcoming generation.

Held in a vibrant and playful setting, the afternoon was filled with live science shows, hands-on activities, and interactive workshops — all designed to inspire young participants to think about the future through exploration, imagination, and dialogue.

The children expressed a wide range of thoughtful and passionate ideas, many of which reflected strong values of sustainability, community, and fairness. Their collective vision included a call for more nature, trees, and green spaces, alongside eco-friendly transport options and fewer cars. They wished for more pedestrianised areas and safer streets, cleaner air with less pollution, and open, child-friendly spaces where they can play and explore safely. Many also asked for better wages and opportunities for everyone, less construction and overdevelopment, and greater cultural appreciation and respect for diversity.

They called for a safer Malta featuring less bullying and stronger enforcement against drug use. The children also highlighted the importance of more accessibility and inclusivity for people of all abilities, inspired by countries like Holland, Switzerland, and Spain. Additionally, they envisioned a metro system, equal opportunities, and more shade and comfort in public spaces — demonstrating mature and forward-thinking awareness of both environmental and social challenges.9

The event underscored the importance of listening to young voices in national policymaking. As part of Malta Vision 2050, this initiative aims to ensure that planning for the country’s future is inclusive and reflective of the values, needs, and dreams of all generations. Families, educators, and policymakers were encouraged by the depth of the children’s contributions — a powerful reminder that the youngest members of society are often among the most insightful when given the opportunity to be heard.

The public consultation runs till 9 September and feedback can be submitted on envision2050.gov.mt