The Story of Doninu

Doninu is not just a name—it is a living spirit, a mission, and a way of life. It means every person who, with love and kindness, brings goodness to others—especially to those who are vulnerable, marginalized, or forgotten.

At Doninu, we believe in the power of love beyond boundaries. We do not judge by a person’s face, political views, or religion. We hold a deep conviction that every individual has the absolute right to live freely, to believe what they choose, and to be respected for who they are.

What unites us at Doninu is far stronger than what divides us. We focus on the values that connect humanity: compassion, dignity, and hope. We look beyond differences and build bridges of understanding and care.

Unlike many organisations, Doninu does not collect money through donations nor rely on government grants. Instead, we offer something priceless—our hearts and our hands. Our volunteers work selflessly, driven by genuine love and commitment to serve.

We believe that charity is not about money or resources. True charity is about giving time, respect, and kindness. It is about being present for those in need, lifting them up with empathy and support.

Through charity hubs, educational programs, cultural initiatives, and community engagement, Doninu strives to bring light to those living in darkness. We serve children, the elderly, families in hardship, and persons with disabilities—anyone who needs a helping hand and a caring heart.

Doninu is a family united by a common purpose: to make the world a better, more loving place—one act of kindness at a time.

In Doninu, every one of us can become a servant of charity, a guardian of human dignity, and a builder of unity.

Because in love and service, we find the true meaning of life.

DONINU:

Dignity
Openness
Nurturing
Inclusion
Noble
Unity

And putting it all together as a sentence:
“Dignity, Openness, Nurturing, Inclusion, Noble Unity — this is what Doninu stands for.”

The Meaning Behind DONINU

Each letter of DONINU stands for a core value that shapes who we are and how we serve. Together, these values form the foundation of our mission and the spirit of true charity.

D – Dignity

Every person is born with inherent worth. At Doninu, we treat every individual with respect, honour, and compassion—regardless of their background or situation. We believe in restoring dignity where it has been lost and protecting it where it is threatened.

O – Openness

We open our hearts and minds to all. We listen without judgment and welcome everyone with love. Openness means accepting differences, being transparent in our actions, and always ready to grow in understanding.

N – Nurturing

We believe in the power of care. Like a gentle hand guiding a fragile flower to bloom, we nurture the potential within every person. Through support, encouragement, and time, we help others heal, grow, and shine.

I – Inclusion

No one is ever left behind. We stand for a world where every person—regardless of ability, race, belief, or identity—is valued and included. Inclusion is more than a principle; it is our daily action and promise to build belonging.

N – Noble

Our mission is grounded in noble intentions—serving without personal gain, acting with honesty, and upholding moral courage. Nobility means choosing what is right, even when it is difficult, and always placing others before ourselves.

U – Unity

We are stronger together. Unity is the soul of Doninu—a force that connects hearts across borders and barriers. In unity, we find peace, purpose, and the strength to make lasting change.

The Heart of DONINU

Dignity shines in every face,
A sacred right, a human grace.
We lift the fallen, calm their fears,
And honour each with love sincere.

Openness, our guiding light,
We welcome all, both day and night.
No judgment here, no hearts closed tight,
Just hands outstretched to make things right.

Nurturing souls with gentle care,
A kind word spoken, a moment shared.
We help each dream begin to grow,
With warmth that melts the deepest snow.

Inclusion calls us to embrace,
Each voice, each heart, each time, each place.
No wall, no line, no locked-out door—
With love, we open up the floor.

Noble hearts, we walk the way,
Not for reward or grand display.
But just because it’s just and true—
We do what kind souls ought to do.

Unity, the thread we weave,
Together, stronger, we believe.
One mission, one hope, one family name,
Different voices, one shared flame.

Words by Chev.Jean Pierre Calleja

Legal and Institutional – Doninu (Malta) International and Its Rightful Status Under Maltese, EU, and International Law

1. Introduction

Doninu (Malta) International is a humanitarian, non-commercial, volunteer-led initiative that operates in Malta and supports vulnerable individuals, families, and communities without handling money, collecting funds, or accepting government financial support. The organisation operates solely through in-kind donations and voluntary action. It is not registered with the Office of the Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations (CVO), and asserts its right to operate independently and lawfully under Maltese, European, and international legal frameworks.

This report outlines the legal grounds that protect and legitimise the work of Doninu (Malta) International.

2. Nature and Scope of Doninu (Malta) International

Doninu:

Does not collect or manage money
Does not accept grants from government or institutions
Does not conduct fundraising for itself
Does not engage in commerce or offer paid services
Operates fully through volunteers
Provides food, second-hand goods, emotional support, and educational materials to those in need
Refers vulnerable persons to official authorities
Promotes inclusion, defends human rights, and supports other NGOs and councils

3. Legal Basis Under Maltese Law

3.1. Constitution of Malta

Article 42: Guarantees the freedom of association. Individuals and groups have the right to associate for any lawful purpose, including humanitarian work.

3.2. Voluntary Organisations Act (Cap. 492)

The Act only applies to organisations that handle money, assets, public funds, or seek legal personality.
Doninu, which does not collect or handle money, is not required to register under Cap. 492.
The Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations has no legal authority to regulate non-registered groups who operate legally and without financial activity.

3.3. Civil Code (Cap. 16)

Recognises informal associations and private initiatives, including acts of charity and community solidarity that do not seek legal personality or engage in commercial activity.

3.4. Criminal Code (Cap. 9)

Doninu’s activities are clearly lawful and are not prohibited by any criminal legislation. Its actions to report abuse or neglect to authorities are legally supported.

3.5. Data Protection and Safeguarding Laws

Doninu ensures personal data and safeguarding issues are referred appropriately, in line with the Data Protection Act and child protection norms.

4. Legal Basis Under EU Law

4.1. Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union

Article 11 – Freedom of Expression: Includes the right to receive and impart information.
Article 12 – Freedom of Assembly and Association: Protects the right to form and join associations at all levels.
Article 21 – Non-discrimination: Supports Doninu’s anti-discrimination and equality-based work.

4.2. Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU)

Article 4 & 6: Encourages Member States to promote social protection, human health, and inclusion.
Article 167: Encourages cultural and educational initiatives, including civic values like volunteerism.

4.3. European Pillar of Social Rights

Supports access to essential services, inclusion, and protections for vulnerable people – all of which align with Doninu’s mission.

5. International Legal Frameworks

5.1. European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR)

Article 11: Right to freedom of assembly and association.
Article 10: Right to freedom of expression.

5.2. United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)

Article 20: Right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association.
Article 21 & 22: Support the right to participation in community and social protection.

5.3. UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)

Supports inclusion, autonomy, and dignity of persons with disabilities – a core principle of Doninu’s work.

6. Protection from Overreach by Regulatory Authorities

The CVO is legally restricted from interfering in the operation of groups like Doninu that do not manage or raise money.
The CVO may collaborate with such groups but cannot impose registration or administrative burdens.
Any attempt to restrict, threaten, or dissolve Doninu for not registering with the CVO would violate fundamental rights and could be challenged in Europe Authorities.

7. Equal Access to Non-Monetary Benefits

Doninu is entitled to equal access to public infrastructure, like use of school halls or local council venues, as long as no money is involved.
Denial of such access based solely on non-registration is discriminatory and may breach both Maltese constitutional principles and EU anti-discrimination laws.

8. Conclusion

Doninu (Malta) International operates lawfully and ethically. Its refusal to register with the CVO is not only legal but protected by Maltese, European, and international law. It provides a public benefit through voluntary, non-commercial, non-monetary humanitarian work.

It must be respected, supported, and protected against unjust regulatory interference.

Prepared by: Doninu (Malta) International Legal Team

Official Announcement
New Anthem of Doninu (Malta) International

We are proud to announce the official anthem of Doninu (Malta) International:
“Doninu (Malta) International – Our Noble Call”

This original song reflects the soul of our mission — serving the vulnerable with dignity, without financial interest, and always within the spirit of honesty, compassion, and justice.

The anthem is written in English, so it may be understood and embraced both in Malta and abroad, wherever our message of voluntary service and solidarity is heard.

Let this anthem be a symbol of our unity, our principles, and our unwavering dedication to those in need.

Support with Heart. Serve with Purpose.
– Team Doninu (Malta) International

Verse 1
We rise as one with hearts so true,
To serve the weak, the brave, the few.
No coin we seek, no fame, no prize,
But hope and peace in tear-filled eyes.

Chorus
Support with heart, serve with grace,
In every soul, a sacred place.
From Malta’s shores, we proudly stand,
With open hearts and willing hands.
Doninu’s light, forever bright,
A voice for truth, a shield for right.

Verse 2
We walk where others turn away,
Where silence hides what words can’t say.
With kindness pure and duty wide,
We stand for all left cast aside.

Bridge
No wealth, no title drives our name,
But love that burns like steady flame.
We serve not self, but God above,
And all His children with our love.

Final Chorus
Support with heart, serve with grace,
Together strong in every place.
Doninu Malta, proud and free,
We serve in truth, with dignity!

Verse 3
Through every trial, we shall rise,
With courage strong and open skies.
No barrier too high to climb,
Together we transcend all time.

Chorus
Support with heart, serve with grace,
In every soul, a sacred place.
From Malta’s shores, we proudly stand,
With open hearts and willing hands.
Doninu’s light, forever bright,
A voice for truth, a shield for right.

Verse 4
In darkest night, we find the way,
For love will guide us every day.
The weary hearts we lift and cheer,
With Doninu’s hope, we have no fear.

Bridge
No wealth, no title drives our name,
But love that burns like steady flame.
We serve not self, but God above,
And all His children with our love.

Final Chorus
Support with heart, serve with grace,
Together strong in every place.
Doninu Malta, proud and free,
We serve in truth, with dignity!

WORDS: Chev Jean Pierre Calleja
MUSIC: