The UNHCR and the European Parliament information office today presented their joint publication #knowthefacts - a booklet with information and statistics on asylum and migration in Malta, Europe and beyond.

The publication is intended to provide MEP candidates and stakeholders with factual information on which to base positions and views. It is based on information available from UNHCR statistics, Eurostat data and various official sources in Malta.

The booklet, see pdf link below, includes updated information and statistics up until 2014. Specific points of information will be disseminated in the coming weeks through social media platforms.

Presenting the publication to the media, UNHCR representative to Malta Jon Hoisaeter said asylum and migration issues remained high on the agenda in Malta.

"There are different perspectives as regards challenges and solutions. But the debate often suffers from lack of awareness about some of the basic facts. We hope this publication could contribute to a well-informed dialogue on asylum and migration topics in Malta.”

Peter Agius, head of European Parliament information office, said this initiative was being taken as part of a wider information campaign towards a more informed debate leading to the European elections.

“We are pleased to be part of the launch of this practical information toolkit, addressing a topic that is often hotly debated. The booklet will be shared with MEP candidates, relevant authorities and civil society organisations.”

One of the first tasks for the newly-elected MEPs will be to participate in the grilling of the new EU Commissioners, including the one designated as responsible for migration policy.