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‘My Commitment Is To Social Justice’: Meet MEP Candidate Claudette Abela Baldacchino

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Former labour MEP Claudette Abela Baldacchino has decided to return to the European stage by running once again in the 2024 European Parliament (EP) elections.

Speaking to Lovin Malta, she outlined her main electoral priorities which are centred around social justice and inclusion, adding that she’s already pledged to promote disability rights if she were to be elected.

Abela Baldacchino served as an MEP between 2013 and 2014, being elected via casual elections. However, she did not run as a candidate in the subsequent 2014 and 2019 elections.

However, she’s taken the plunge once again and this is what she had to say about her trajectory as well as her opinions on the EP.

This article is part of a Lovin Malta series with MEP candidates ahead of the upcoming election. The same questions are being asked to every single candidate and their answers are being published in their entirety. 

1. What made you want to run for the MEP Elections?

My drive to run in the MEP elections stems from a deep commitment to social justice and a belief that politics should be an authentic representation of all people. With my background as a former MEP and activist, I aim to bring the voices of the Maltese people to the forefront of European policy-making. I also want to actively be involved in giving a better future to our children.

As an advocate for Malta’s interests in the EU, my motivation stems from a desire to continue contributing to shaping policies that directly benefit Malta and its citizens. My previous experiences, including my tenure as a member of the Committee of the Regions and as Vice President of the Local Councils Association in Malta, have equipped me with a unique perspective on both local and EU-wide challenges.

2. Why should the public vote for you in the upcoming election?

First and foremost, voters should consider voting for Partit Laburista candidates as I truly believe the party is people-centred. The party turns economic prosperity to social welfare. Voters should consider me because of my proven track record in representing Malta’s interests effectively at the EU level. My commitment to inclusivity, equality, and focus on policies that support economic growth vis-à-vis social welfare are central to my campaign.

I am dedicated to representing the interests of everyone at EU level, from the vulnerable to children and those at risk of poverty. My commitment to social justice and ensuring that all segments of our society are heard is paramount. I have the experience and the determination to advocate for policies that will benefit Malta and its citizens.

3. What is the main issue/top priority you would be focusing on if you were to be elected?

If elected, my main priority would be to address inequalities and champion policies that promote social justice. I believe in creating a more inclusive society where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. For instance, I have already officially pledged that If elected to be a Member of the European Parliament, I will promote disability rights and help build an inclusive future for persons with disabilities in the European Union (EU).

4. Can you mention one weakness and one strength of the EU?

A strength of the EU is its ability to unite diverse nations under a common framework of values and objectives, promoting peace, freedom of movement, and economic stability. However, one weakness is that it sometimes struggles to quickly respond to the diverse needs of its member states, which can lead to disparities in representation and policy impact, and it might seem more of an imposing institution for people in Member States.

5. Tell us who your favourite candidate is from another party?

While it’s important to focus on my campaign and vision for Malta in the EU, I respect candidates who share a commitment to inclusivity, equality, and social justice, regardless of their party.

6. And finally, if you weren’t running, who would you vote for?

It is quite a difficult task, as I believe the Partit Laburista has an exceptional line up. However, as a proponent of policies that align with my values, my vote would go to a candidate who best represents the principles of equality, fairness, and who actively works towards creating a more just society for all.

 

This action was co-financed by the European Union in the frame of the European Parliament’s grant programme in the field of communication. The European Parliament was not involved in its preparation and is, in no case, responsible for or bound by the information or opinions expressed in the context of this action. In accordance with applicable law, the authors, interviewed people, publishers or programme broadcasters are solely responsible. The European Parliament can also not be held liable for direct or indirect damage that may result from the implementation of the action.

READ NEXT: ‘Serve Peace Not War’: Meet Labour MEP Candidate Daniel Attard

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