The Freedom to Live publication is a comprehensive strategy to foster inclusivity for disabled people, adopted based on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, published and entered into force in Malta on August 17, 2021.
In the national strategy, cultural heritage is extensively addressed. Objective 5, “Participation in Culture, Leisure, Recreation, and Sports”, aims at making venues accessible to everyone, so as to ensure that cultural products, outdoor public spaces, and events are inclusive.
The wording “cultural venues” is considered to involve: cinemas, museums, parks, art galleries, historical and other heritage sites. The specific actions envisaged to reach objective 5 include promotion of cultural accessibility through incentives and making traditional local events and sports inclusive.
In order to address current weaknesses and gaps, the strategy foresees a reporting activity on the state of accessibility focused on physical venues as well as on information.
In identifying opportunities and challenges, the strategy makes reference to relevant incentives and legislative support, such as the European Accessibility Act and the Audio-Visual Media Services Directive.
Concerning international standards, the strategy aligns to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Notably, Target 4.7 on ensuring acquisition of knowledge and skills to promote sustainable development, including appreciation of cultural diversity and of culture’s contribution to sustainable development; Target 8.9 on implementation of policies for sustainable tourism and promotion of local cultures; Target 12.b for monitoring tools, and Target 11.4 on world’s cultural and natural heritage protection.
