Young Catholics table proposals for 2013 election

The state, together with other institutions such as the Church, is responsible for the human and spiritual formation of young people, Kummissjoni Djocesana Zghazagh said.

In its suggestions to political parties, Kummissjoni Djocesana Zghazagh (KDZ), the official body of the Church in Malta responsible for the evangelization of young people said that political parties are "deposits of diverse human values in society, therefore we expect that policies are shaped by a clear vision promoting these very human values."

KDZ pointed out a number of areas in which urged all parties to implement laws which encourage young people to participate such as voluntary work and education. Other areas highlighted by the commission include the environment, family and employability.

Echoing the Church's environmental commission, KDZ stressed the importance of "further regulation of development and the threat to the little countryside left in Malta. We recognise the importance of open space and we hope that future generations continue enjoying it as we do."

The commission also highlighted the importance of education in the "human and spiritual foundation" and said that the lack of counsellors and social workers should be addressed immediately. KDZ called for further investment in the spiritual and religious formation of students "whatever their belief is. Spirituality is not a private aspect but is an important part in the personal identity."

On civil rights, KDZ said that it recognises the importance of continuous education "especially for the dignity of the person, which goes beyond nationality, sexual orientation and religion. At the same time it is important to value equality and the love which recognises and encourages diversity."

KDZ also called for further initiatives and measures, which include public consultation and dialogue with young people.