Public Consultation in Valletta Highlights EU Strategy for Disability Rights

On 2 October 2025, Europe House in Valletta hosted a public consultation on the EU Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, attended by MEP Peter Agius, shadow rapporteur for the Petitions and Public Health Committees, alongside stakeholders, civil society organisations, entrepreneurs, and individuals with lived experience of disability.

“Persons with disabilities make valuable contributions to society, and our systems must enable them,” said MEP Agius.

“Today, I listened to those on the frontline advocating for accessibility, combating stigma, and ensuring real rights reach the most vulnerable. Their voices will be represented in the European Parliament.”

Discussions covered employment barriers, discrimination, leadership, hidden disabilities, transport accessibility, and education gaps, with recommendations for improved training, job coaching, and equitable assessment of skills to avoid limiting opportunities or undermining dignity.

Mental health, digitalisation of records, accessible transport, and cultural inclusion were also highlighted, with calls for accessible museum experiences and adaptive technologies.

CORE, representing over 70 Maltese organisations, and other participants stressed the need for incentivising employer training, reducing bureaucracy, and ensuring support for mobility equipment.

Agius noted progress in Malta but emphasised that more work is needed, particularly in integrating people with disabilities into policy and society, highlighting funding opportunities such as the Social Climate Fund and upcoming EU digital initiatives.

“Accessibility means creating a clear path to success,” he concluded.

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