MCESD Hosts First Conference On Social Impact Assessment To Shape Policy

The Civil Society Committee within the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD) held its inaugural conference, placing the spotlight on the importance of Social Impact Assessment (SIA) in policymaking. The Committee, which unites representatives from twelve different sectors, brings together non-governmental organisations (NGOs) representing a broad spectrum of Maltese society.

The Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD) is an advisory body that provides the Maltese government with guidance, opinions, and recommendations on matters of economic and social importance.

The conference was attended by the Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue, Hon. Andy Ellul; the Shadow Minister for the Economy and Enterprise, Hon. Jerome Caruana Cilia; social partners; members of the Civil Society Committee; and representatives from other NGOs.

In his address, Hon. Ellul commended the Committee’s efforts and underlined the need for social considerations to remain central to decisions taken by both government and the private sector. He remarked, “This conference highlights the importance of analysing social impact in a concrete way, allowing us to better understand both the positive and negative effects of any policy or project.”

He also noted that, over the years, the government has maintained policies prioritising the needs of Maltese workers and families. Initiatives such as Miscarriage Leave, NPICU Support Leave, and Bereavement Leave provide tangible support during difficult times without placing a burden on employers. Hon. Ellul concluded by stressing that discussions such as this conference are vital for advancing Malta towards a sustainable and fair future for all.

MCESD CEO Dr. Brendan Zerafa emphasised that the event demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to strengthening social partners and supporting their initiatives. He praised the Civil Society Committee for successfully bringing together ideas and experiences from different sectors of Maltese society and highlighting social impact as a crucial element in public policy development.

The Chairperson of the Civil Society Committee, Norma Camilleri, explained that the conference was the result of ongoing discussions among the twelve sectors represented within the Committee. She highlighted the pressing need for Social Impact Assessment to become an integral part of the formulation of any policy or decision, in line with the principles of the Malta 2050 Vision, which prioritises human well-being alongside economic development.

The event stressed that Social Impact Assessment should become a systematic part of national policy and project development, ensuring that health and well-being are considered alongside financial and economic factors. Both physical and mental health were highlighted as foundations for a healthy society, with particular attention given to vulnerable groups.

Participants explored key areas affecting Maltese society, including work and migration, digital inclusion, technology, infrastructure, transport, health, and education. Ideas shared during the conference focused on how social impact can enhance public policy, strengthen community well-being, and support national development. Antoinette Cefai from the Vision Malta 2050 team within the Office of the Prime Minister praised the conference for complementing the ongoing public consultation on the national vision. She said the discussions align with the objectives of Vision 2050, which aims to ensure a healthy and sustainable quality of life for all.

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