Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1542372
AS we reflect on 2025, it is im- portant not only to celebrate Malta's strong economic perfor- mance, but also to underscore the values at the heart of the La- bour government—social inclu- sion and social mobility. In 2025, government contin- ued to build an inclusive soci- ety where everyone—families, carers, persons with disabilities, pensioners and social welfare beneficiaries—is supported to thrive with dignity and oppor- tunity. One of the most tangible demonstrations of this commit- ment is the continued expan- sion of family-focused financial support. Since 2013, investment in family benefits has tripled, reaching approximately €152 million in 2025. This reflects a clear political choice to assist families with children. Beyond the landmark tax cut measure, Budget 2026 further increased children's allowances and sup- port for children in post-second- ary education. Our approach to in-work ben- efits remains a cornerstone of social policy. The making work pay strategy continues to evolve, ensuring that work always pays more than reliance on welfare. Over the years, tens of thou- sands of families benefitted from in-work benefits designed to lift incomes and encourage more and more persons to stay in the labour market. The tapering of benefits strategy, continues to reduce long-term dependence on welfare while supporting transitions into work. From my experience working with these groups, I can attest to the importance of not only addressing their current dispos- able income but also breaking the cycle of intergenerational dependency on benefits and, consequently, intergenerational poverty. Caring beyond words Equally central to our social agenda is the support for car- ers—not only beneficiaries of care, but the individuals who provide care every day. Government has broadened eligibility for the Carer's Grant, increasing uptake and extend- ing coverage to parents of chil- dren with severe disabilities regardless of age restrictions that previously limited access. This year's measures also ensure that carers accrue social securi- ty contributions, safeguarding their own future pensions a step that recognises the full humanity and rights of those who give so much. Persons with disability have remained a top priority. Beyond fostering access to employment with targeted incentives, the budget increased disability al- lowances, raised support in line with minimum wage growth, and expanded the child disabil- ity supplement giving families and individuals clearer paths to economic participation and so- cial inclusion. Pensioners retain their posi- tion as a mainstay of this ad- ministration's social agenda. Over consecutive Budgets, their disposable incomes have risen through pension increases and tax exemptions. Special atten- tion has been given to widowers and elderly living alone, and cru- cially, to those disadvantaged by lower national insurance contri- butions. Adjustments this year have ensured that all retirees live with dignity, closing gaps that existed in pension adequacy over decades. The government has also in- vested in non-governmental organisations that deliver vital services at community level. In 2025, around 26 NGOs received approximately €13 million to de- liver community-based projects for children, youth and vulner- able adults, including victims of domestic violence. This partner- ship with social NGOs strength- ens social fabric and ensures practical support reaches those who need it most. The social agenda of 2025 shows a Labour government that does not merely manage an economy, but invests heavily in social mobility. It lifts people up. We have continued to protect the vulnerable, champion in- clusion, and ensure opportunity is available to all Maltese and Gozitans. As we look ahead to 2026, our strategy remains clear: Combin- ing economic strength with so- cial solidarity, building a Malta where growth is shared, dignity is protected, and no one is left behind. 8 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 4 JANUARY 2026 OPINION THE past year in Maltese poli- tics has been one of reflection, challenge, and growing clarity. It has been a year that forced us, as a country, to ask difficult ques- tions about where we are heading, what we have accepted as "good enough," and whether we truly believe we deserve better. Politics, at its best, is not about manag- ing expectations downward, but about lifting a nation. And that is precisely where Malta must now look. For too long, the national con- versation has been dominated by the idea that what we have today is the best we can hope for. It is a conversation that presupposes growth must come at the expense of quality of life and progress means compromise in standards. That mediocrity, dressed up as success, is something we should simply accept. This past year has made one thing increasingly clear—the Maltese people are no longer convinced by this narra- tive. Across communities, workplac- es, and families, there is a quiet but firm belief that Malta can do better. It is not a belief root- ed in nostalgia but in ambition. It comes from people who work hard, raise families, build busi- nesses, and contribute daily to our country's success. They are not asking for miracles. They are ask- ing for seriousness, honesty, and leadership that believes in them as much as they believe in Malta. From the Opposition benches, the Nationalist Party has spent this year listening closely to that message. Remaining close to the people has not been a slogan; it has been a responsibility. Through con- stant engagement, policy work, and parliamentary scrutiny, we have worked to understand not just the problems people face, but their hopes and dreams for the future. Politics must never lose touch with reality, but it must also never lose sight of possibility. This year has also been one of re- newal for the PN. We have made important inroads, strengthened our internal unity, and developed a fresh, modern vision for Malta. A vision that is grounded in eco- nomic competitiveness, social justice, and sustainability. A vi- sion that understands that pros- perity is not measured solely by numbers, but by whether people feel secure, respected, and confi- dent about the future. We firmly believe that Malta can be more productive without being exploitative, more competitive without being unfair, and more prosperous without leaving any- one behind. Growth should not divide; it should uplift. Progress should not be exclusive; it should be shared. And success should never come at the cost of dignity. Being in Opposition is not about opposing for the sake of it. It is about proving, through ideas and conduct, that there is a bet- ter way. Over the past year, we have shown that we are prepared to govern by presenting serious policy proposals not with empty marketing. The coming year must be one of hope, not passive hope, but ac- tive hope. The kind that demands more from those in power and more from ourselves. The Mal- tese should not be content with simply "getting by". They should expect excellence, integrity, and leadership that plans beyond the next headline or election cycle. As a country, this is the moment to look ahead together as one na- tion united by a shared desire to see Malta succeed. A Malta that invests in its people, values hard work, rewards innovation, and protects the vulnerable. A Mal- ta that competes internationally while remaining true to its iden- tity and values. Our message must now be loud- er, clearer, and more confident. Louder, because the country is calling out for something better. Clearer, because people deserve honesty, not spin. And more confident, because we know that Malta has the talent, resilience, and creativity to reach higher standards. There is a growing sense among many that while something bet- ter is needed, no one is capable of delivering it. I reject that notion completely. I firmly believe that the Nation- alist Party is ready to lead, ready to serve, ready to govern and offer Malta a future based on merit and courage. This past year has strengthened that belief. The year ahead must turn it into reality. Ivan Castillo PN MP A year of reflection, a year of resolve This year has also been one of renewal for the PN. We have made important inroads, strengthened our internal unity, and developed a fresh, modern vision for Malta Leonid McKay CEO Labour Party A year of social progress rooted in Labour values As we look ahead to 2026, our strategy remains clear: Combining economic strength with social solidarity, building a Malta where growth is shared, dignity is protected, and no one is left behind