Migrant Women Association Malta

EU Legislative Interests

Migrant Women Association Malta (MWAM): EU Policy Engagement and Legislative Focus Participation in the European Commission Expert Group The Migrant Women Association Malta (MWAM) is a member of the European Commission's Expert Group on the Views of Migrants in the Field of Migration, Asylum and Integration. Through this role, MWAM contributes to consultations and policy development on EU reforms affecting migrants' rights and lived experiences. MWAM provides grassroots, migrant-centred insights to inform EU-level policymaking in the following areas. EU asylum regulations and reform initiatives Integration frameworks across Member States Protection of migrant rights within EU legal structures Policy initiatives promoting social inclusion and equality Advocacy on Gender-Based Violence and Women's Rights (EU Law & Standards) MWAM's advocacy aligns with major EU legislative proposals and policy frameworks aimed at advancing gender equality and combating violence against women. The organization participates in initiatives and partnerships that support EU objectives to: Strengthen protections for victims of gender-based violence Raise awareness and promote prevention strategies. Improve access to services and justice for migrant women.n Address structural inequalities affecting migrant women in Europe. Through these actions, MWAM contributes to the broader implementation of EU gender equality standards, particularly for migrant and minority women. Key EU Policy Areas Targeted by MWAM 1. Migration, Asylum & Integration Policy Through its participation in the European Commission expert group, MWAM provides migrant-focused perspectives to EU discussions on migration governance, asylum reform, and integration policies. 2. Gender Equality and Violence Against Women Legislation MWAM's work supports EU legislative initiatives aimed at combating gender-based violence and strengthening women's rights, particularly for vulnerable and migrant communities. 3. Rights & Fundamental Freedoms / Non-Discrimination MWAM advocates for employment access, social inclusion, equality before the law, and protection from violence—areas that align with broader EU legal frameworks on fundamental rights and anti-discrimination.

Communication Activities

The Migrant Women Association Malta conducts community consultations focused on asylum and integration. They offer policy-awareness workshops on EU migrant rights and anti-discrimination law, as well as public seminars and stakeholder dialogues. The association raises awareness about gender-based violence through campaigns and training activities, including those under violence prevention projects. Additionally, they organize commemorative events, including International Women’s Day and the 16 Days of Activism, as well as other international women's rights events. The association provides employment and empowerment workshops, leadership training specifically for migrant women, and engages with the media. They also create and distribute informational materials and digital outreach content to support EU policies concerning migration, integration, gender equality, the prevention of violence against women, and fundamental rights. This work facilitates structured dialogue between migrant communities and EU policymakers.

Interests Represented

Does not represent commercial interests

Member Of

Malta Refugee Council https://maltarefugeecouncil.org.mt/Members Consultative Council for Women's Rights https://humanrights.gov.mt/en/Pages/Gender%20Equality/Consultative%20Council/The-Members.aspx Women Against Violence Europe (WAVE) https://wave-network.org/about/#wave-members Malta women's lobby

Organisation Members

MWAM is structured into four main departments: Management, Projects, Volunteer Programs, and Education. The organization is managed by one full-time staff member, supported by two part-time staff—one migrant woman employed in the Saħħa Community Kitchen Project and one IT trainer leading the IT courses. MWAM also contracts qualified counsellors who provide individual and group emotional and psychological support sessions. In addition, MWAM is supported by approximately 20 ad hoc volunteers and seven interns each year, who contribute in key roles such as project officers, fundraising officers, volunteer coordinators, and project assistants. MWAM focuses on addressing the complex challenges faced by asylum seekers, refugees, and migrant women living in Malta. The organization's goal is to help beneficiaries build safe and stable lives, secure their rights, and successfully integrate into the host community. Many of MWAM’s beneficiaries have endured complex journeys, resulting in physical, emotional, and economic stress for themselves and their families. These challenges also increase the risk of gender-based violence among migrant women. Since the COVID-19 crisis in 2020, MWAM—through its Emergency Response Support Project and other initiatives—has assisted 627 beneficiaries, providing vital support during times of crisis and beyond.

Additional Information

The annual accounts for 2024 and 2025 have not yet been finalized. Adjustments and updates for the main funding sources will be made once both annual financial reports are completed and officially issued.