All migrant residents should have the right to vote and stand in local elections, according to human rights organisation Aditus.

In its Malta Integration Network report published today, the NGO recommends removing any obstacles to migrants participating in local politics.

It also suggests exploring the possibility of granting voting rights at national level to certain groups of migrants.

Malta is one of 11 EU states that do not grant any electoral rights to third-country nationals residing on the island.

The report maps a way forward for a national integration policy in Malta including recommendations to give equality bodies enforcement powers.

The enforcement capabilities include being able to dish out pecuniary sanctions to those found in breach of third country nationals’ equality rights.

Equality bodies would not be the only entities to be granted more powers, Aditus also recommends bestowing the Industrial Tribunal with the power to suspend deportation orders as well as to extend residential permits.

It also calls for existing equality laws to be consolidated into a harmonised Equality Act.

Other recommendations include peer-peer mentoring programmes for migrants entering the work force and a series of teacher training programmes.

On the implementation of a national integration policy, the report suggests the setting up of a consultative council which would allow migrants to dialogue with the government on legislation and policy affecting migrants.

The full report may be read in the pdf link below.