The Government of Malta made a major move to advance social inclusion by officially ratifying its commitment to the Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion during a signing ceremony in Valletta on 12 September. The event was attended by a delegation led by Special Olympics Europe Eurasia President David Evangelista and Honourable Minister of Education and Sport, Dr. Clifton Grima.
Under the leadership of Minister Grima, Malta’s Ministry of Education and Sport has pledged approximately EUR 600,000 to support the growth of Special Olympics programming across the nation. This funding will be used to expand Unified Sports, increase the reach of the Motor Activity Training Program (MATP), and enhance ongoing sports and health initiatives led by Special Olympics Malta.
"Malta’s commitment to inclusion reflects a deep understanding of the power of sport to change lives," said Evangelista. "By investing in Unified Sports and supporting people with intellectual disabilities in schools and throughout the community, Malta is helping to create a more inclusive society, not only within its borders but also as a key EU Member State and global leader in this vital movement."
"The commitment of the Government of Malta, the Honourable Minister Dr. Clifton Grima, along with the generous support from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, is truly inspiring. Their dedication, together with Special Olympics Malta, to expanding inclusive opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities serves to inspire other nations to follow suit, expanding the reach and scope of this important Global Coalition for Inclusion. We are deeply grateful for their leadership and unwavering support in advancing our mission of inclusion."
Unified Sports is one of the most impactful programs offered by Special Olympics, bringing together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities to play on the same team. This initiative helps to break down barriers and foster understanding through shared experiences. With Malta’s investment, Unified Sports will now be available in more sports clubs and community centres across the country, making it easier for individuals with intellectual disabilities to participate and be part of their local sporting communities.
Additionally, the expansion of the Motor Activity Training Program (MATP) will provide individuals with severe intellectual disabilities with tailored physical activities that are adapted to their abilities. This program is crucial in enabling greater participation in sports and improving the quality of life for individuals with the most significant support needs.
"Our participation in the Global Coalition for Inclusion is a testament to Malta’s dedication to creating equal opportunities for all. We believe that sport can bridge gaps, and by investing in Special Olympics programming, we are not only enriching the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities but also strengthening our communities as a whole."
"We are laying the groundwork for a future where every individual, regardless of their abilities, can participate fully in society. This is about much more than sports; it’s about creating a world that values and includes everyone."
Malta’s involvement in the Coalition highlights the critical role governments play in driving inclusive development. As one of the inaugural members, Malta is setting an example for Member States throughout the European Union and further afield, demonstrating that meaningful inclusion requires collaboration across sectors and a sustained commitment to funding and support.
By signing on to the Global Coalition for Inclusion, Malta will provide support nationally while also building strong momentum internationally. This effort will continue to open doors for individuals with intellectual disabilities, ensuring they have the same opportunities to thrive in sports, education, health and beyond.
Launched in June 2023 during the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, the Global Coalition for Inclusion encourages governments to provide domestic financing for inclusive development programs. The Coalition brings together governments, industry leaders, philanthropy, and the development community to expand inclusive opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Coalition members have committed to expanding inclusive sports and education opportunities to over 2,000,000 young people in more than 150,000 schools and scaling Special Olympics programming to 180 nations.
Government Coalition members include: Angola, China, Egypt, Ghana, Gibraltar, Iceland, Jamaica, Kenya, Kosovo, Malta, Mongolia, Montenegro, Panama, Paraguay, Seychelles, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates.
The Coalition, made possible by a generous grant from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF), drives a public-private partnership model that also engages United Nations agencies, development aid agencies, global philanthropic leaders, corporate leaders and more.
More information can be found on the Global Leadership Coalition for Inclusion can be found here.
