PRESS RELEASE BY THE OFFICE OF THE SPEAKER Deputy Speaker opens the Conference “Ensuring Equality for Rainbow Families in Europe”, as part of the Meeting of the Committee on Equality and Non-Discrimination of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of

Deputy Speaker David Agius opened the Conference Ensuring Equality for Rainbow Families in Europe with a call for unity and inclusion, reminding participants that “No one is free until we all are. Inclusion is not a zero-sum game; it enriches everyone and strengthens our communities.” The event forms part of the Meeting of the Committee on Equality and Non-Discrimination of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) and was hosted by the Parliament of Malta on 11-12 September 2025.

In his address, Deputy Speaker Agius underlined that communities thrive when they stand together and embrace all their members. He acknowledged the progress made in combating discrimination and promoting inclusivity, while stressing that the work is far from complete. Across Europe, rainbow families continue to face legal uncertainty, unequal treatment, and, in some cases, outright discrimination. Although advances have been made in affirming the right to private and family life, disparities in national laws persist, undermining the stability, security and dignity of parents and children alike.

The conference, organised by the Parliamentary Platform for the Rights of LGBTI Persons in Europe, the PACE Committee on Equality and Non-Discrimination, and the Maltese Delegation to PACE under the auspices of Malta’s Presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, offers a timely platform to confront these challenges. Discussions will focus on strengthening legal protection, ensuring cross-border recognition of family status and advancing social inclusion. Taking place within the framework of Malta Pride, the event seeks to build momentum for legislative and policy reforms that guarantee equal respect, protection and recognition for all families across the Council of Europe’s member States.

The Council of Europe has long championed human rights, working steadfastly to combat discrimination and promote equality. Malta, in its role as President of the Committee of Ministers, has reaffirmed its commitment to fighting violence and discrimination in every form while upholding the principles enshrined in the European Convention on Human Rights.

The opening session also featured contributions from Hon. Naomi Cachia, Head of the Maltese Delegation to PACE; Ms Beatrice Fresko-Rolfo, PACE General Rapporteur on the Rights of LGBTI Persons; Dr Helena Dalli, Former EU Commissioner for Equality; and Hon. Rebecca Buttigieg, Parliamentary Secretary for Reforms and Equality.

In her address, Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms Rebecca Buttigieg expressed concern that the core values of the Council of Europe on human rights and democracy are being eroded in certain member states that are rolling back the rights of LGBTIQ+ people.

Rebecca Buttigieg stated that the Maltese government, because it truly believes in the principles and values of the Council of Europe, has carried out significant reforms and will continue to implement policies that promote respect, dignity, and equality. She appealed for all institutions and member states of the Council of Europe to safeguard these values and not be swayed by populist politics that threaten fundamental human rights.

The conference will progress with three sessions covering The Legal Landscape for Rainbow Families in Europe, chaired by Hon. Naomi Cachia; Privacy and Family life – protecting the rights of rainbow families; and Promoting Inclusion for rainbow families – the role of Parliamentarians.