Malta Reaffirms Commitment To Affordable Housing At UN Meeting
Minister for Housing and Lands Owen Bonnici reaffirmed Malta's commitment to affordable housing and sustainable urban development during the United Nations General Assembly High-Level Meeting on the Midterm Review of the New Urban Agenda, held in New York.
Addressing delegates, Bonnici described affordable housing as a cornerstone of dignity, wellbeing, opportunity and social cohesion.
He noted that, a decade after the adoption of the New Urban Agenda, housing affordability, social inclusion, climate resilience and the sustainable use of land remain among the world's most pressing challenges.
The Minister highlighted Malta's experience as one of Europe's most densely populated countries, saying that limited land resources and demographic changes require long-term planning and people-centred policies that support sustainable communities.
He outlined the Government's continued investment in housing through the Housing Authority. Measures include the provision of social housing, rental assistance schemes, support for first-time buyers and specialised assistance for vulnerable individuals and families.
According to the Minister, these initiatives are helping thousands of families gain access to adequate and affordable housing.
Bonnici also referred to measures aimed at people who do not qualify for social housing but still face difficulties entering the property market, saying the Government is working to ensure that more individuals and families have access to suitable housing opportunities.
The Minister also highlighted Vision Malta 2050, describing housing as one of the key pillars of economic prosperity, environmental sustainability and social cohesion.
He referred to the national initiative Id-Dar t'Għada, which is helping develop long-term housing policies that respond to the changing needs of young people, families, older persons and vulnerable groups.
Bonnici stressed that housing policy must continue to promote climate resilience, environmental sustainability and responsible land use while ensuring equal access for everyone.
He also called for stronger international cooperation, innovative financing mechanisms and closer partnerships to accelerate the implementation of the New Urban Agenda.
He concluded by reaffirming Malta's commitment to sharing its experience and working with international partners to help build more inclusive, resilient and sustainable communities for current and future generations.
#MaltaDaily