Jacob Vella, Doctor of Medicine and Surgery, third year.
• In contemporary society, a society of free choice and autonomy, it is inconceivable to hinder the right to end a relationship which has irrevocably gone wrong.
Not surprisingly, and despite its appeal, the utopia of having all marriages lasting a lifetime proved not to be a reality in Malta, as any other country in the world. The 2009 Demographic Review shows 527 separations and 38 divorces (obtained abroad) were registered.
It is also not the case that everlasting marriages are a contemporary fashion – one third of last years’ divorces concerned marriages of between 10 and 19 years.
In 2008, most of the divorces were obtained by couples who had been married for over 20 years. It is also relevant to mention the issue of sons and daughters being affected by the thorny decision of divorce. While this is definitely true, I might wonder about the bio-psychosocial repercussions on the same children who alternatively would have to live for years in a tense environment of quarrelling and discontent.
Ultimately, couples who have a strong relationship and are open for discussion and conciliation – irrelevant to whether they are married or cohabiting - will not automatically opt for this legal implement merely because it is available.
Carlo Calleja Mercieca (MKSU President), Bachelor of Sacred Theology, third year.
• We all share the pain couples go through when difficulties scar their married life, worst of all, with serious repercussions on children.
To some, introducing divorce might seem a valid option. It is a weak and partial one, though, and is not of benefit to society at large such as couples who are entering marriage. We need to explore alternatives. Although a lot is invested in marriage preparation courses, more is called for. Could we be on the brink of a new culture which is rediscovering the true meaning of family?
This implies cultivating attitudes we rarely speak of such as hope, reconciliation and living through moments of crisis. Stable families are the foundation of a healthy society in so far as they are based on these universal values. Couples in difficulty have every right to expect protection, help and support from both State and Church. One way in which Moviment Kattoliku Studenti Universitarji is contributing to the dialogue on Campus is through its participation on the KSU social policy subcommittee on the family.
Luke Buttigieg, ICT student representative, B. Sc. (Hons) ICT, second year.
• The question shouldn’t be whether divorce should be introduced or not, but rather why it hasn’t been introduced yet!
The reality is that some marriages are breaking down, and there is absolutely no legal framework or rights for the people involved in the fray. Needless to say, the partners themselves usually end up having to deal with far more than the grief of their failed relationship, and still this is not hindering them in their decision to break up.
As most of us know, sometimes relationships end, and no one wants to live a lie. Children are tossed between the two partners and their families, scarring them emotionally at an often tender age for years to come. Lengthy and expensive legal battles frequently ensue, taking away precious funds which could be being spent for the child’s benefit. I don’t believe divorce will destroy marriage – only protect one’s rights during an unfortunately more common happening nowadays. It’s time we stop ignoring the elephant in the room and legalise what has been long accepted and proven to be the solution to this problem overseas.
Edward Mizzi, Law, fourth year.
• Am I in favour of divorce? I am not, but I do agree with the introduction of divorce in Malta. This is no self-contradiction. I hold my opinions and beliefs dear; I also believe that because they are mine, it is only equitable that I do not impose them on others who are in a situation that I am not.
I am essentially pro-choice and believe in giving others the option to make up their own minds. And what about the children? Separated couples are faced with the same problem; it is futile to argue this point against divorce. Ultimately, those who are happily married will remain so; those who are not will separate and eventually divorce anyway. If you do not agree with divorce then you may simply live your life as though it does not exist. I am of the opinion that it is unjust to keep the option of divorce from those who would make use of it, bearing in mind that it is a purely civil action.
Moreover, I think the introduction of divorce will make a person think twice before marrying – is that such a bad thing?
Karl Agius, University Students’ Council (KSU) student representative on Senate.
• As a student with Christian, democratic principles I think divorce should not be an issue if families are strong. The family has been one of the most important values in our nation and we should treasure it.
Moreover, statistics have shown an increase in the number of failed marriages, yet I have noted these are still relatively low. Therefore, I feel we should do our best to consolidate our families rather than opting for divorce as an option for such cases.
There has been a debate about whether this issue should be decided by the MPs or through a referendum. Whatever the case will be I feel everyone’s opinion should be respected, provided the individual has a “formed and informed conscience” and is not biased in his statements and decisions.
I also hope this issue comes to an end by the end of the year but not without impeding a proper evaluation of the current situation.