On behalf of the Ministry of Social Affairs, Family and Equality, allow me to express our gratitude to all Caregivers and support workers on the occasion of the International Day of Care and Support. We come together to celebrate the invaluable contribution of carergivers and support workers who dedicate their lives to improving the well-being, dignity, and quality of life of others.
This year’s theme, “Building Sustainable Care and Support Systems Through Decent Work,” reminds us that caring for people is not simply a service; it is an essential pillar of our society, our communities, and our shared humanity. It calls upon us to recognise that sustainable care begins with valuing the people who provide it.
Every day, care and support workers demonstrate compassion, patience, resilience, and commitment. They stand beside the elderly, and those considered as most vulnerable, including those living with some sort of impairment, and provide comfort and reassurance to those who need help. Their work often takes place behind the scenes, yet its impact is felt in countless lives and families.
However, compassion alone should not be the foundation of our care systems. Those who care for others deserve to be cared for themselves. Not only they deserve decent working conditions, fair remuneration, job security, equal opportunities, they deserve access to training that will equip them and guarantees social protection, and a safe and respectful working environment.
Building sustainable care and support systems requires us to move beyond appreciation and translate our words into meaningful action. It requires governments, Non-Government Organisations, communities, and families to work together to strengthen care services, invest in the care workforce, and ensure that every caregiver is treated with dignity, fairness, and respect.
The theme also calls for decent work which is not a privilege. It is a fundamental element of a just and inclusive society. When caregivers are empowered, supported, and valued, they can provide better and quality care. When caregivers have secure employment, appropriate resources, and opportunities for professional development, our care systems become stronger, more resilient, and more sustainable.
Let this occasion be a renewed call for action to recognise care work as essential work, promote gender equality, address inequalities within the care sector, and create opportunities for young people to pursue meaningful careers in care and support services.
Above all, let us remember that investing in caregivers is an investment in humanity. A society that values its caregivers is a society that values every human life.
To all carers and support workers, we express our deepest gratitude. Your dedication makes a difference, your compassion inspires hope, and your work strengthens the very fabric of our communities. You are not merely supporting lives; you are helping to build a future in which everyone has the opportunity to live with dignity and respect.
As we commemorate this important day, let us join hands to build a future where care is accessible, care workers are protected, decent work is guaranteed, and no one who dedicates their life to caring for others is left behind.
Source: Ministry Of Social Affairs, Family & Equality.