NCPE, KNPD launch two EU projects co-financed by Progress programme

In her introductory speech, NCPE Commissioner Romina Bartolo, explained that the PROGRESS programme was the EU’s employment and social solidarity programme.  She said that the programme was established to financially support the implementation of the EU objectives in employment, social affairs and equal opportunities, as set out in the Social Agenda.

The NCPE Commissioner further explained that both NCPE and KNPD had applied for funds under the same area of the Progress Programme, that is. non-discrimination.

“Strengthening Equality Beyond Legislation”,to be implemented by NCPE, had as objectives the better implementation of legislation on non-discrimination and the development of national policy to combat discrimination and promote equality beyond legislation.

The NCPE project aimed to sensitise, and stimulate action by, key stakeholders as their contribution towards a de facto equal environment. Project coordinator Matthew Zarb, explained how good practices in anti-discrimination and diversity were the expected long-term outcome of this project. 

The project included three main actions: research, training and awareness-raising. The research components included analysing underreporting of discrimination; reviewing the national minimum curriculum from an equality perspective; analysing the preferred media of minorities to use in future campaigns; and developing a national action plan on racism and xenophobia.

The training component of this project included cross-organisational training with various entities in the field, as well as training to educators, parents and youths Targeted training would also be provided to media organisations.  Other project activities under this programme included awareness-raising campaigns, an equality in schools competition, training for children using forum theatre; and an interdiversity seminar for youths.

“Different Persons, Different Needs, One Society” was currently being implemented by the National Commission Persons with Disability (KNPD).  This project was addressed at improving the implementation of non-discriminatory legislation and promoting equality.

The NCPE project included the national disability awareness week, national conference and disabled people’s Parliament on the national employment policy, a seminar on anti-discrimination, and the production of educational material for disability equality training and a training-trainers weekend. 

KNPD Executive Director Anne-Marie Callus announced that, during this weekend, KNPD would launch a DVD including educational material for trainers to use during their training sessions.  She explained that this DVD would enable the trainers to present the personal experiences of disabled people to the training participants. 

KNPD chairperson Joseph M. Camilleri, reiterated that their project’s activities would contribute to the Progress Programme’s aim of influencing the attitudes of decision-makers, key stakeholders and the general public regarding the importance of promoting social cohesion through the increased participation of disabled people in all aspects of life. 

Furthermore, the KNPD chairperson explained that the project also highlighted how EU policy that promoted non–discrimination and social inclusion could be implemented in Malta's well as identifying key stumbling blocks and opportunities.