The National Cultural Policy 2021 (NCP 2021) prioritises increasing cultural access and widening participation, including regarding disability. One of the main areas given attention is open and accessible community spaces. Related to that, the importance of community-based activity is highlighted by the 2030 Strategy issued by Arts Council Malta (ACM).
Furthermore, NCP 2021 also commits to look beyond simple access to culture for people with disabilities as consumers or in terms of therapeutic intervention. Inspired by the Equal Opportunities (Persons with Disability) Act (Cap. 413) and the framework of the EU Work Plan for Culture (at the time 2019-2022) establishing an ecosystem supporting cultural and creative professionals and European content, NCP 2021 commits to look at increasing the participation of creatives with disabilities so that they and their work are equally represented and visible across the sectors.
ACM has initiatives aimed at increasing inclusivity and supporting the implementation of cultural rights. The Right to Culture resource pack is designed to raise awareness about inclusivity and support the implementation of cultural rights in day-to-day practice.
ACM has highlighted the need for accessible theatre venues and spaces, ensuring that performers and audiences with disabilities have full access. This includes making stages, dressing rooms, and other facilities accessible.These efforts are part of a broader commitment to integrate culture into national development and ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can participate in and enjoy cultural activities.
The Commission for the Rights of Persons with Disability (CRPD) collaborates with ACM putting into practice policy for further collaboration, as set out in the NCP 2021). One important collaboration concerns the assessment of accessibility in cultural venues, starting with public cultural ones. The research supporting these actions includes: CRPD. Access for All. Design Guidelines. 2011, 3rd edition and Spazji Teatrali: A Catalogue of Theatres in Malta and Gozo (commissioned by ACM).
There are a small number of impactful cultural organisations that target the direct participation of people with disabilities in the arts. These include Opening Doors and Villabianca.
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