Council members of the Malta Confederation of Women’s Organisations paid a courtesy visit to President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca at the Palace in Valletta.

Mrs Coleiro Preca highlighted the importance of civil society organisations and the work of the confederation in its lobbying for the promotion of women’s rights in all sectors of private and public life.

Chairwoman Lorraine Spiteri explained how the confederation also worked at a European level, being the only NGO in Malta which is a full member of the European Women’s Lobby.

Among the issues discussed were the importance of education to ensure female financial independence and to dismantle the stereotypical roles that continue to hinder equality not only in the labour market but also in male violence against women.

The issue of social inclusion was also raised in the discussion, with particular emphasis on young single mothers. These women may face difficulties in renouncing their social benefits if the job opportunities accessible to them are not financially viable due to lack of skills or qualifications. Their motivation for empowerment may also be low. In the meantime, they run a high risk of running into poverty, which impacts directly their well-being as well as that of their children.

The members accompanying Ms Spiteri were treasurer Mariella Azzopardi, who represents the Malta Association of Women in Business, secretary Lilyen Fielder, representing Union Ħaddiema Magħqudin, Mary Rose Francica from the Foundation for Women Entrepreneurs and Lydia Sciberras of the Attard Ladies Cultural Club.

The confederation is an umbrella organisation that represents 14 local member organizations, which collectively have 24,000 female members.

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