Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1545039
5 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 22 MAY 2026 NEWS Launch of LGBTIQ+ Regional Strategy for Gozo: A three year blueprint for equality LGBTI+ Gozo with the sup- port of the Human Rights Di- rectorate and the Parliamenta- ry Secretariat for Equality and Reforms has released the first LGBTIQ+ Regional Strategy for Gozo, a comprehensive three- year blueprint marking a sig- nificant milestone in ensuring inclusive services and fostering a culture of equality within the Gozitan community. The strategy is the result of extensive research involving a survey of 130 LGBTIQ+ in- dividuals and allies, alongside in-depth interviews with 15 professionals across the health, legal, and education sectors. The strategy aims to bridge the gap between Malta's progres- sive national legislation and the lived experiences of the Gozitan community. This is also LGBTI+ Gozo's 11th year in the activism sector and the Regional Strategy will guide the entity over the next years to amplify its inclusive services for the community. The main findings of the re- search reveal a complex social landscape where a "double in- sularity" creates unique barriers for the community. While there is a growing sense of positive change regarding LGB identi- ties, gender diversity remains a contested issue, and the overall social climate is characterized as cautious and socially con- servative. Professionals noted that while youth attitudes are shifting, many adults still har- bor resistance, leading to a state where surface-level acceptance often masks residual prejudice. A primary concern highlight- ed is the fear of exposure and lack of anonymity inherent in Gozo's small scale, which often leads to a hesitation to "come out" due to potential gossip or professional fallout. This is par- ticularly present for LGBTIQ+ Gozitans. To address these challenges, the strategy highlights 10 key recommendations focused on creating a more equitable en- vironment. These include im- plementing holistic educational awareness across key sectors and developing psychosocial services that are specif- ically conscious of the Gozitan context, ensur- ing strict confidentiali- ty and anonymity. The strategy also empha- sizes the promotion of safe spaces and com- munity outreach to normalize LGBTIQ+ realities, alongside cross-sector collabo- ration and increased public representa- tion, such as Gozo Pride. Furthermore, the blueprint calls for policy enhancement through better com- munity enforcement and long-term sus- tainability through ongoing re- search and inclusion tracking. The strategy emphasises that inclusion is not solely an LGB- TIQ+ issue; it affects all people especially marginalised groups, from disability to mental health to migration and more. We must work inclusively to resist further dividing society and f a l l i n g into the trap of pitting margin- alised groups against marginal- ised groups. LGBTI+ Gozo is already put- ting these recommendations into action. This includes the rollout of inclusivity toolkits and training packages, as well as building a meaningful dialogue with religious leaders within the faith sector. By facilitating dedicated LGBTIQ+ spaces and enhancing local access to care, the strategy seeks to ensure that "everyone is welcome," moving Gozo toward a future where inclusive policies are not just written, but effectively put into practice. As LGBTI+ Gozo enters its 11th year in activism, we call on all within our society to foster empathy, compassion and re- spect regardless of our differ- ences. We encourage entities across spheres to work with us and contribute to the growth of our society, through love, ac- ceptance, and hope for an equal future. The Regional Strategy can be viewed on the LGBTI+ Gozo website. A special thanks goes out to Prof. Liberato Camilleri from University of Malta for his generosity in data analysis and the Human Rights Directorate for their support. Pride Week in Gozo