This side event marks the 10th anniversary of the recognition of Maltese Sign Language and the 20th anniversary of the CRPD.
Ten years from the passage of the Maltese Sign Language Recognition Act in 2016, we celebrate and focus on consolidating achievements, as a means of shaping the next phase of implementation of the CRPD. Malta wishes to do this in the spirit of this year's CoSP, alongside Deaf activists and allies from around the globe. Coordinated by the Deaf-led Sign Language Council of Malta (KLSM), the side event will highlight Malta's progress in legal recognition of sign language, community-led policy development, professionalization of sign language interpreting and accessibility as a human right. Aside from exploring the structured collaboration between local actors such as the Deaf community, interpreters and service providers, the event will also showcase best practices and challenges through the interventions of Deaf colleagues from different countries, while collectively discussing milestones and concerns of the Deaf community regionally and globally. Key matters explored will include: • Recognition and status of sign language in national and international fora, including the UN • Use of sign languages in education, services and public life • Deaf-led efforts to lead change, and to protect language, culture and identity • The inclusion of Deaf people in decision-making • Accessibility as a right under the CRPD and national legislation A particular focus on how small nations can lead change will be included, whereby Malta can serve as a model for other small states on how to successfully integrate a minority sign language into everyday life, by including Deaf people, respecting linguistic rights, and ensuring that no one is left behind.
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