Prime Minister Robert Abela Meets Eu Council President-Elect António Costa

Nov 21 2024

In a meeting at Auberge de Castille, Prime Minister Robert Abela and EU Council President-elect António Costa discussed key issues of shared interest for Malta and the European Union.

Dr. Abela emphasised the need for a fair Single Market that supports competitiveness and ensures equal access for all Member States. He highlighted challenges in sectors like pharmaceuticals and freight, stressing that a “one-size-fits-all” approach does not work for all countries.

He called for policies that incentivise innovation and quality growth, particularly for small and medium enterprises, which form the backbone of the economy.

Migration was also discussed, with Dr. Abela advocating for sustainable solutions, including enhanced cooperation with North African countries like Libya. He stressed the importance of effective repatriation processes for those not eligible for asylum, alongside protection for those who qualify.

The leaders also addressed the EU’s role in the Middle East conflict, with Dr. Abela reaffirming Malta’s support for a two-state solution. Regarding Ukraine, he emphasised the need for peace and reconstruction, with Malta contributing through social projects. Dr. Abela also called for stronger transatlantic relations following the U.S. election outcome.

During Costa’s visit, he toured Malta’s International Contemporary Art Space (MICAS) and St. John’s Co-Cathedral. Dr. Abela wished him success in leading the European Council, emphasizing strong future cooperation.

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Minister Michael Falzon Launches Vuċi Toolkit And Strategic Vision For Children

Nov 21 2024

Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights Michael Falzon has launched an innovative toolkit called VUĊI (Valuing and Understanding Children’s Impact).

This tool is designed to collect data on the impact of children’s participation across sectors, including policies affecting children, adults, and broader decision-making processes.

The toolkit offers a practical framework to evaluate and strengthen children’s participation at both national and international levels. Alongside this launch, the Strategic Vision for Children (2024–2030) was introduced, focusing on safeguarding children’s well-being, rights, and participation while supporting families and enhancing children’s environments.

Announced during a conference on International Children’s Day, the initiative was praised by Marie-Cécile Rouillon, the European Commission’s Coordinator for Children’s Rights. She commended Malta’s progress in empowering youths, citing the voting age of 16 as a notable example of adolescent involvement in national decision-making.

Minister Falzon acknowledged ongoing challenges in ensuring children receive proper care. He emphasized the importance of recent legislative changes that empower professionals to make decisions prioritizing children’s growth in safe and nurturing environments.

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Season 2 Of Sidemen’s ‘INSIDE’ Coming To Netflix

Nov 21 2024

The Sidemen, a British YouTube group with over 146 million combined subscribers, are expanding their horizons beyond YouTube.

They’ve announced that Season 2 of their reality show, Inside, will premiere on Netflix in 2025, along with a US version.

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Known for their diverse content ranging from gaming to comedy sketches, the group—featuring creators like KSI and Vikkstar123—say they’ve reached a “ceiling” on YouTube and see this as an opportunity to reach new audiences.

Vik Barn described the move as “ambitious,” emphasising the journey from creating content in their bedrooms to collaborating with the world’s leading streaming platform.

Inside initially aired on YouTube in June, drawing 14 million views for its first episode. The show locks influencers in a house to compete for prizes worth up to £1 million.

Netflix’s interest signals a major step for the Sidemen, who will serve as executive producers with creative control.

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Despite their growth, the group remains wary of media scrutiny, avoiding political and social commentary to focus on their core mission: creating entertaining content.

Vik acknowledged the pressure but emphasised their commitment to staying authentic, even as they tackle the challenges of bringing their fast-paced production style to Netflix.

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Agreement Signed between Aġenzija Sapport and Aġenzija Żgħażagħ To Enhance Training Opportunities

Nov 21 2024

Aġenzija Sapport and Aġenzija Żgħażagħ have signed a three-year agreement to expand training opportunities for mentors and youth utilizing Aġenzija Sapport services.

The signing took place in the presence of Minister for Inclusion and Volunteering Julia Farrugia Portelli and Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research, and Innovation Keith Azzopardi Tanti.

Under this agreement, Aġenzija Żgħażagħ will deliver leadership and mentoring training to youth workers from Aġenzija Sapport. It will also roll out targeted programs to empower youths with diverse abilities, enabling them to enhance their skills and actively participate in the community.

Minister Farrugia Portelli highlighted the collaboration’s importance in fostering inclusivity and helping youths realize their full potential. Parliamentary Secretary Azzopardi Tanti commended the joint effort, emphasizing its role in creating a stronger, more inclusive society.

Participants in Aġenzija Sapport’s programs, such as Sharing Lives, will benefit from professional-led sessions, while initiatives like SAFER and Take a Stand will promote digital safety and personal empowerment among youths.

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