The recent European Parliament vote on the Individual Investor Programme was a non-binding resolution. Do you think citizenship is of EU or national concern?
Citizenship is something that should primarily be dealt with by each country individually. However, as members of the EU, it is only natural that the issue becomes a broader one. Antonella Mifsud, 20, BA (Hons) Maltese (3rd year).
Citizenship, by its very nature, is a national concern since it carries with it a multitude of rights and obligations determined by the State and exercised within that state. In the same manner, acquiring EU citizenship inevitably invokes regional concerns since the body of rights acquired may be exercised and enforced throughout the member states. Amy Lee Micallef, 23, Doctor of Laws (2nd year).
It is a national concern because every country has the right to choose who should be a citizen of that country. Andrea Farrugia17, Btec Extended Diploma in Business, Mcast.
Did the debate/vote change your opinion on the scheme? What struck you most about the debate?
Not quite. The fact that identity is of such importance to so many countries is really crucial. That we are in a common sphere may be threatening to some who fear the loss of individual qualities that make us Maltese. But given the general attitude towards this topic from representatives from all over Europe, this should probably not be a concern. Antonella Mifsud
It provided further insight into Malta’s proposed scheme and similar schemes in the EU, thereby contributing to a more informed opinion. I was somewhat struck by how deeply opposed certain states were. Amy Lee Micallef
No, it didn’t change my views. What struck me most was how certain EU members felt the need to impose their views after they have been deciding who can and cannot become citizens of their countries for many years. Andrea Farrugia
Do you agree with the Prime Minister’s reaction that the scheme is going to stay despite the European Parliament vote?
The fact that a leader sticks to his opinion until the very end, despite the controversy that may arise, is a very responsible action. It should, of course, be the Prime Minister’s final decision at the end of the day. I’m sure the vote was taken into consideration and dwelled upon and that whatever was done was in the country’s best interest. Antonella Mifsud
I appreciate his political reasoning although I think it would be sensible to consult the EU and review the terms in order to reach an acceptable scheme and to further our diplomatic relations within the Union. Amy Lee Micallef
Yes, because certain decisions should be made internally, as is the case with taxation. The Maltese government should deal with internal affairs. Andrea Farrugia
Interviews conducted by Insite – the Student Media Organisation.