Defending the Right to Serve: Doninu (Malta) International
Doninu (Malta) International, founded in June 2023, operates as a fully voluntary, non-profit organisation dedicated to helping vulnerable individuals, particularly those with disabilities. The organisation provides non-monetary aid, including food, clothing, and psychosocial support, without collecting donations or public funds.
Despite its lawful status under Maltese and international law, some public authorities are questioning Doninu’s operations simply because it is not registered with the Office of the Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations (OCVO). According to the Voluntary Organisations Act (Cap. 492), registration is not mandatory for organisations that do not handle public funds. This exemption exists to allow groups like Doninu to operate freely without bureaucratic hindrance.
Doninu’s work is inspired by universal spiritual values, particularly those found in Christianity and Islam, which call for compassion and aid to the vulnerable. The organisation’s mission is aligned with the teachings of Pope Francis and supported by Malta’s national commitment to social justice, as expressed by past and present Prime Ministers.
The core issue at hand is not legal, but rather a misguided perception that only registered organisations are legitimate. Doninu calls on all authorities to respect its lawful right to serve without unnecessary interference and to uphold the values of compassion and justice that Malta stands for.
The Rule of Law is a fundamental principle of democratic societies that means:
Everyone, including governments and public authorities, must follow the law.
Here’s a clear breakdown of what it really means:
- No one is above the law – Not politicians, government officials, police, or private citizens. Everyone is subject to the same laws.
- Laws must be applied fairly and equally – People in similar situations should be treated the same, without bias or discrimination.
- Laws must be clear, public, and stable – So that people can understand them and know what is expected of them.
- Legal processes must be transparent and independent – Courts must be free from political pressure or corruption, and everyone has the right to a fair hearing.
- Rights and freedoms are protected by law – The law must protect fundamental rights, such as freedom of speech, movement, and association.
In short, the Rule of Law ensures justice, accountability, and fairness — and prevents abuse of power.
The law is not a toy.
Laws should not be changed, bent, or broken to suit the personal interests of those in authority. Anyone entrusted with power also has a duty to understand, respect, and follow the law—not twist it or abuse it as they please.
We, as citizens and as a voluntary, transparent organisation, are not asking for special treatment. We are simply asking that the law be applied fairly, equally, and properly — to everyone.
Everyone deserves the right to live with dignity and peace, without fear or unjust pressure. That is the very least we expect in a just and democratic society.
DONINU (MALTA) INTERNATIONAL Anthem: Malta -Innu Tfal Maltin
National Anthem: Malta – L-Innu Malti.