Malta is gradually becoming a cosmopolitan State. It has welcomed integration of colonial nationalities since time immemorial. Recently the influx stemmed from the Mediterranean littoral and beyond. Malta has accepted eclectic expansion.

This eclecticism was brought about by the addition of believers from different religions, by foreign political ideologies and by their respective institutions.

Malta’s attempts at integrating, nurturing and educating newcomers into its democratic principles are not entirely successful. In fact the upheavals occurring in other democratic countries are sources of danger. They are too real to be ignored.

Criminal minds in Malta are already present in drug importation, daring burglaries and prostitution. Besides revolutionary claims, military invasions and intolerant murders are now the curse of Europe and Africa. These events are too near to Malta to be ignored.

It is true that we have a disciplined army and an organised police corps. However their role is mainly domestic and humanitarian. They are bent on ensuring peace among the young generation, on rehabilitating criminals and deterring others from committing crimes.

The army is fully engaged in sea rescue and air surveillance mostly in search of irregular immigrants. Even our excellent legal system is too full of the milk of human kindness. It is more bent on leniency and deterrence than on punishment. All this is well and good.

It is very positive to be idyllic, believing that history has made Malta seem impregnable. I worry myself sick thinking about what destiny might hold in store. International news repeatedly warns that jihad infiltration is a source of terrorism in other countries.

I ask myself: has Malta made any preparations for future international contingencies? Is Malta ready to ward off any dangers to national security? Is the European Union a shield of defence? Are Malta’s allies truly her friends?

I pause to ponder!