Amplifying Voices: The Power of Representation in Malta’s Anti-Racism Plan

SERIES: ANTI RACISM STRATEGY MALTA

Action Plan 5: Representation 

Malta is strengthening representation by amplifying marginalised voices through community outreach and national initiatives, ensuring that those affected by racism actively shape policies and public dialogue.

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What is Action 5 about?

Discrimination cannot effectively be addressed without listening to those who experience it daily. This plan identifies the meaningful and effective representation of racialised groups as a foundational pillar. Its primary aim is to bring individuals affected by racism and xenophobia to the forefront of national conversations. By doing so, the government seeks to better understand their lived experiences, respond to their needs, and empower them to shape public opinion and contribute to the national narrative. Increasing representation is a strategic response to the persistent issue of under-reporting, helping to build trust within the communities and emphasizing the importance of timely and effective responses to incidents of discrimination.

To ensure minoritized voices are both heard and celebrated, Action 5 outlines several key measures:

1.Appointing Anti-Racism Ambassadors

To humanise and strengthen this national effort, Anti-Racism Ambassadors will be appointed to champion the implementation of the plan's measures. Recognising that identities intersect, the selection process will consider the strategy’s intersectional approach, ensuring that ambassadors reflect the diverse and multifaceted realities of modern Malta.

2.Establishing an Annual Anti-Racism Week

Visibility is a powerful tool for change. In conjunction with the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, the Human Rights Directorate (HRD) will introduce an annual "Anti-Racism Week" into Malta’s human rights calendar. This dedicated week may include flagship events such as national conferences and award ceremonies, recognising innovative and impactful anti-racism initiatives across the country.

3.Driving Community Outreach and Bystander Action

Meaningful change must take place at the grassroots level. The plan calls for outreach and awareness-raising initiatives across a variety of settings, including schools, local communities and civil society organisations, ensuring the active participation of minority groups. These initiatives will include targeted campaigns addressing racial hate speech, raising awareness about its impact, prevention strategies, and how such incidents are investigated. Importantly, they will also encourage bystander action, equipping individuals with knowledge and confidence to respond effectively when witnessing racism.

4.Partnering for Diversity

Representation is equally important in professional environments. The government will strengthen collaboration with social partners that already embrace diversity as a core value, promoting this inclusivity as a source of collective pride. This measure aligns with the "good practice stamp" introduced in Action 1, works alongside the Diversity Charter to recognize and celebrate organisations that actively promote racial equality. By appointing dedicated ambassadors, establishing a national awareness week, engaging communities, and celebrating inclusive workplaces, Malta is ensuring that the fight against racism is guided by the voices that matter most. Through this approach, representation becomes not only a principle but a driving force for meaningful and lasting change. https://humanrights.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/NAPAR-2025-2030.pdf