Malta’s development co-operation is in line with the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs and Trade’s 2006 Strategic Objectives (Objective 18), which is further defined in the 2013 Guiding Principles of Malta’s Foreign Policy. Since it acceded to the European Union (EU) in 2004, Malta has closely aligned with EU commitments and priorities, most notably the European Consensus on Development. Its latest Foreign Policy Strategy frames its development co-operation efforts around promoting democracy, human rights and sustainable development.
Malta’s Official Development and Humanitarian Assistance Policy (issued in 2021, setting priorities until 2030) outlines its implementation plan in partnership with multilateral organisations, non-governmental organisations, civil society organisations, the private sector and academic institutions. The three overarching goals in support of the 2030 Agenda are reducing poverty and social inequality; equal rights for women and girls; and inclusive, equitable quality education and capacity building. Priority themes include climate change, peacebuilding and security, blue growth and blue economy, ocean governance, water resources policies and technologies, trade and investment, sustainable development, small states and small island states, and gender equality. Humanitarian assistance in tandem with development co-operation, predominantly administered through multilateral channels, remains a priority for Malta.
In line with Malta and Africa: A Strategy for Partnership 2020-2025, Africa is a priority region for Malta’s development co-operation as part of an integrated approach to promote development through multilateral and bilateral development and humanitarian assistance, diplomatic relationships, and trade and investment in line with Africa’s ambitions to realise its Agenda 2063.
