The controversy on the unfortunate comments Labour leader Joseph Muscat made the other day on irregular immigration, which drew strong criticism from those who perceived them as an attempt to be populist, cannot have come at a worst time. For if there is one thing Malta needs in this area is a robustly united front on its principles and on how to handle the still developing humanitarian crisis.
Very much aware of the seriousness of the situation, Allied Newspapers will this week be holding a national debate on Dealing With The Libya Migration Crisis. It aims to bring together politicians, NGOs and experts to discuss, among other issues, Malta’s position, the EU response and relations with neighbouring countries.
It is hoped such an initiative will help to bring closer together those who directly or indirectly have a role or could contribute towards seeing this country and its people approaching the matter always better, in line with its basic principles and values, with due consideration that it needs prompt and concrete help in shouldering such responsibility.
There should be absolutely no hiccups in Malta’s determination to do everything possible to save the lives of those who may find themselves at risk while fleeing the turmoil in Libya and trying to reach a safe shore elsewhere. Therefore, this country’s approach cannot risk not being unified in its insistence with the international community, primarily the EU, to show more effective solidarity with Malta and the other countries striving to cope with the migratory flows from North Africa.
The EU knows very well the massive displacement of populations from a number of North African countries has been putting the protection and reception systems of some of its member states, in particular in Italy and Malta, under increasing strain. Meanwhile, the story is bound to continue. The news, for instance, that the Italian secret service reports that about 15,000 migrants released from detention in Libya could be on their way to Europe, together with so many others who have already been making such plans, does not come as a surprise to those with their feet on the ground.
Brussels must surely realise that the probable increase in the flow of people, for example Somalis and Eritreans, potentially in need of international protection, coming from Libyan territory is an issue of major concern.
Those who come from Tunisia can fall into either category of migration, that is migrants or persons in need of international protection. They should therefore be subjected to a screening process, to establish identification and reason for journey, to evaluate their right to protection.
On the other hand, those emanating from Libya, now a war zone and a situation that has justified the involvement of the international community, should be provided for according to the particularly abnormal circumstances of their flight.
The best interest of these people and that of Malta, therefore, at this moment in time is best served by ensuring that this nation, the political leaders first and foremost, approach the EU fully united in their stand.
The aim should be to hammer home the message that the EU must shoulder its responsibilities to fulfil its obligations to protect such people and to demonstrate the true meaning of solidarity and responsibility sharing... through action not words.
Malta needs to insist, with one voice, that the EU must show that serving solidarity is truly a most important witness that Europe owes itself and the world.