Maltese Organisation Bringing ‘Invisibility’ to Light Gains UN Attention

The Maltese voluntary organisation, Visual Non-Visual Network (V.O.), has brought its message of inclusion to the international stage, with its mission now being recognised at the United Nations through the initiative of Acting President Dr Helena Dalli.

Founded by Noel Farrugia, the San Pawl il-Baħar-based organisation has spent over four decades promoting understanding between what it describes as the visual and non-visual worlds. Its guiding principle is as powerful as it is simple: no one should be invisible while alive.

The Visual Non-Visual Network has long focused on empowering blind and visually impaired persons by developing “beyond-sight” workplace skills and expanding opportunities for independent living. Through education, advocacy, and professional training, the organisation works to ensure that lack of sight does not mean lack of opportunity.

Dr Dalli, who currently serves as Acting President of Malta and previously held the post of EU Commissioner for Equality, has recently visited the Maltese blind community to acknowledge their contribution to inclusion and social advancement. Her engagement with the Visual Non-Visual Network highlights Malta’s ongoing efforts to promote equality and human dignity for persons with disabilities.

Inspired by the resilience of Maltese blind farmers, Dr Dalli has now presented the organisation’s mission to the United Nations, effectively bringing Malta’s voice to a global platform on disability inclusion and human rights.

Founder Noel Farrugia described the recognition as “a milestone for those who have worked for decades to ensure that visibility and dignity are not privileges, but rights.”

From its base in St Paul’s Bay, the Visual Non-Visual Network continues to advocate for a society where inclusion is not defined by sight—but by recognition.