Servizzi Ewropej F’Malta Marks Fifth Anniversary: Launches The Policy Unit
Servizzi Ewropej f’Malta celebrated the fifth anniversary of its establishment with a commemorative event, during which the official launch of the new Policy Unit was also announced.
The development marks a further step in the agency’s growth as it continues to strengthen the connection between citizens, organisations and the European Union’s policymaking process.
The event was attended by Minister for European Funds and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, Permanent Secretary Jonathan Vassallo, and former Chief Executive Officers of the agency.
Representatives from various ministries and entities were also present, along with organisations and stakeholders that have worked with Servizzi Ewropej f’Malta over the years.
The occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on the agency’s achievements since its establishment on 25 March 2021. Its mission has focused on bringing the European Union closer to people and making the opportunities and benefits offered by the EU more accessible to citizens and organisations in Malta and Gozo.
Over the past five years, the agency has worked around three main pillars: inform, engage and support.
Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi stated that Servizzi Ewropej f’Malta has served as an important point of reference for information and guidance on EU opportunities.
He added that the introduction of the Policy Unit will encourage greater public participation in the EU policymaking process and strengthen Malta’s role in shaping European policy. He also thanked the agency’s team for their work, noting that their efforts have contributed to several recognitions within the public service.
Chief Executive Officer Rodrick Zerafa outlined a number of achievements over the past five years.
These include more than 35 thematic campaigns, 115 information sessions, over 2,600 guidance meetings on different schemes, more than 5,000 public queries answered, and over 700 applications submitted with a combined value exceeding €150 million. He said these results were achieved through the work of a dedicated team committed to delivering a consistent and professional service.
The agency has also received the Public Service Quality Award and the National Supporting Business Award.
He added that while the first five years focused on bringing EU opportunities closer to citizens, the next phase will place greater emphasis on strengthening the voice of Maltese citizens and organisations at European level.
Permanent Secretary Jonathan Vassallo highlighted the importance of continuing to adapt to the evolving needs of the country and its citizens. He said the new Policy Unit will reinforce public participation in EU policymaking while building on the agency’s existing work.
The Policy Unit is intended to support awareness of EU initiatives through clearer information, encourage participation in discussions on EU policies, facilitate public consultations, and improve coordination with ministries, entities and other stakeholders.
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