Press
News Stories and Press Coverage
New Research Launched: Support and Advice through Health System for Hate Crime Victims)
25 June 2019 The People for Change Foundation is launching the research phase for the SHELTER (Support and Advice through health system for hate crimes victims).
This project aims to improve the protection for victims of hate crime and their access to health services. We will be carrying out research across Malta and Gozo with public healthcare workers and victims of hate crime to find out about access to healthcare for victims and raise awareness amongst healthcare professionals of this issue. Through this project, PfC will work on capacity building for professionals and students in the health sector and with our international partners, develop tools and draft protocols for detecting and assisting victims of hate crime for the health sector.
If you are a public healthcare professional and would be interested in participating in this research project please contact [email protected]
25 June 2019 The People for Change Foundation is launching the research phase for the SHELTER (Support and Advice through health system for hate crimes victims).
This project aims to improve the protection for victims of hate crime and their access to health services. We will be carrying out research across Malta and Gozo with public healthcare workers and victims of hate crime to find out about access to healthcare for victims and raise awareness amongst healthcare professionals of this issue. Through this project, PfC will work on capacity building for professionals and students in the health sector and with our international partners, develop tools and draft protocols for detecting and assisting victims of hate crime for the health sector.
If you are a public healthcare professional and would be interested in participating in this research project please contact [email protected]
Mixed families constantly prompted to explain themselves – study
Maltese citizens living in racially and ethnically diverse families are largely invisible in public debates, but their experiences are stories of openness and resilience against ‘racism by proxy’, a new study by the People for Change Foundation has found. These individuals and families, who have either grown up in mixed families, entered into mixed relationships and marriages, or adopted children internationally, would like to see a country that does not see colour as a defining feature of ‘foreignness’. Yet strangers, neighbours or even their relatives probe their personal choices with curious and sometimes insensitive questions, the research revealed.
“Ethnic Minorities beyond Migration: The Case of Malta”, a study funded by the European Network against Racism, sheds new light on minority experiences in Malta. Working with fifteen families, the study reveals the diversity of mixed family experiences, yet also reveals a number of patterns in both experiences and coping mechanisms.
Adoptive and biological parents whose children are visibly racially ‘different’ struggle with a lack of public role models for their children who, whilst being Maltese are also often made aware of this cosmetic difference, whether at school or through public discourse. These parents, as well as their children, particularly when they grow into their teens and adulthood, often need to work hard to convince others of their local identity, whilst at the same time often maintaining a strongly cosmopolitan outlook which accepts and celebrates diversity.
Parents of adopted children, biracial children as well as partners and spouses of persons of a different ethnicity all experienced a high level of curiosity around their choices, and often played the role of mediators in explaining and sometimes justifying this, whilst having to take the time to constantly explain to others their relationships, families and loved ones.
Yet still, most of the participants in this research maintained a positive outlook, explaining excessive curiosity and even some forms of ambivalence and antagonism as ignorance rather than hostility. Most felt that the diversity within their family has enriched their lives as well as the lives of those around them – family, friends and even curious strangers.
The researchers, whilst being very much encouraged by the resilience and even positive and educative role that these diverse families have taken on, pose the question that it is equally the role of the rest of society to not delineate individuals and families and ask them to explain their presence and identity.
Maltese citizens living in racially and ethnically diverse families are largely invisible in public debates, but their experiences are stories of openness and resilience against ‘racism by proxy’, a new study by the People for Change Foundation has found. These individuals and families, who have either grown up in mixed families, entered into mixed relationships and marriages, or adopted children internationally, would like to see a country that does not see colour as a defining feature of ‘foreignness’. Yet strangers, neighbours or even their relatives probe their personal choices with curious and sometimes insensitive questions, the research revealed.
“Ethnic Minorities beyond Migration: The Case of Malta”, a study funded by the European Network against Racism, sheds new light on minority experiences in Malta. Working with fifteen families, the study reveals the diversity of mixed family experiences, yet also reveals a number of patterns in both experiences and coping mechanisms.
Adoptive and biological parents whose children are visibly racially ‘different’ struggle with a lack of public role models for their children who, whilst being Maltese are also often made aware of this cosmetic difference, whether at school or through public discourse. These parents, as well as their children, particularly when they grow into their teens and adulthood, often need to work hard to convince others of their local identity, whilst at the same time often maintaining a strongly cosmopolitan outlook which accepts and celebrates diversity.
Parents of adopted children, biracial children as well as partners and spouses of persons of a different ethnicity all experienced a high level of curiosity around their choices, and often played the role of mediators in explaining and sometimes justifying this, whilst having to take the time to constantly explain to others their relationships, families and loved ones.
Yet still, most of the participants in this research maintained a positive outlook, explaining excessive curiosity and even some forms of ambivalence and antagonism as ignorance rather than hostility. Most felt that the diversity within their family has enriched their lives as well as the lives of those around them – family, friends and even curious strangers.
The researchers, whilst being very much encouraged by the resilience and even positive and educative role that these diverse families have taken on, pose the question that it is equally the role of the rest of society to not delineate individuals and families and ask them to explain their presence and identity.
Social Media Effective Way to Connect with Migrant Communities - Report
Research by The People for Change Foundation has highlighted the potential of social media as a means of outreach and engagement with migrant communities.
The report, published this week, provides insight into different migrants’ use of social media across three main types of activities: communication, information-seeking, and content sharing and creation. Based on a survey of 169 migrants living in Malta, the research found that the use of social media amongst migrants is widespread although with differences along lines of age, gender and level of education. Facebook is by far the most popular social media platform while the use of other platforms tends to be limited to specific audiences.
Participants use social media mainly to connect with family and friends and to seek entertainment. However, a large majority expressed an interest in receiving more information on migrant rights and regulations via these channels. At the same time, there were noticeable demographic differences between migrants who use social media to receive information and those who pioneer content creation and group management.
Speaking about the report, Christine Cassar, Director of the People for Change Foundation said: 'we were keen to explore how different groups of migrants use social media, as well as how NGOs, government and others can best engage with migrant communities in Malta to raise awareness on rights and promote integration. The research confirms that social media holds excellent potential in this regard. It is a cost effective way to engage, and one that has significant reach'.
The report is available here.
Research by The People for Change Foundation has highlighted the potential of social media as a means of outreach and engagement with migrant communities.
The report, published this week, provides insight into different migrants’ use of social media across three main types of activities: communication, information-seeking, and content sharing and creation. Based on a survey of 169 migrants living in Malta, the research found that the use of social media amongst migrants is widespread although with differences along lines of age, gender and level of education. Facebook is by far the most popular social media platform while the use of other platforms tends to be limited to specific audiences.
Participants use social media mainly to connect with family and friends and to seek entertainment. However, a large majority expressed an interest in receiving more information on migrant rights and regulations via these channels. At the same time, there were noticeable demographic differences between migrants who use social media to receive information and those who pioneer content creation and group management.
Speaking about the report, Christine Cassar, Director of the People for Change Foundation said: 'we were keen to explore how different groups of migrants use social media, as well as how NGOs, government and others can best engage with migrant communities in Malta to raise awareness on rights and promote integration. The research confirms that social media holds excellent potential in this regard. It is a cost effective way to engage, and one that has significant reach'.
The report is available here.
November 16th, 2014
If you see or experience racism: report it! New service launched by The People for Change Foundation
A new, web-based system (www.reportracism-malta.org) giving victims and witnesses of racism an easy and effective means of reporting their experiences has been launched by The People for Change Foundation, the human rights think tank.
The service is intended to increase reporting of such incidents, to inform individuals about remedies available, and to support them through the process. It will also gather data to help better understand the reality of racism in Malta, and to provide an evidence base that will inform legal and policy development in the area.
The process is simple – if you witness or experience racism in whatever form, you can fill out a form online, which is currently available in Maltese, English and French. If you agree to be contacted, The People for Change Foundation will offer support in the process. This will include provision of information as well as help with filing official reports and following them up.
The need for such a system is clear from the high levels of incidence and low levels of reporting of racist incidents. A report by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) found that an alarming 63 per cent of Africans in Malta experience high levels of discrimination, which is the second highest incidence in the EU. In addition, 29 per cent have fallen victim to racially motivated crime. At the same time, relevant authorities have received only very low numbers of reports, which jars both with the research statistics as well as when compared to the perception that racism is widespread. 85 per cent of victims of racism keep quiet about the abuse they experienced. This troubling statistic, found in a report by the National Commission for the Promotion of Equality (NCPE) is what led the People for Change Foundation to set up Report Racism Malta.
The fact that there is no easily accessible channel allowing those experiencing or witnessing racism to report these cases of discrimination has left many feeling helpless and disempowered (a Fundamental Rights Agency report found that only 11% of African immigrants in Malta knew of the existence of the National Commission for the Promotion of Equality).
Many also believe that their report will fall on deaf ears. At the same time, a perceived lack of action following such reports has led to individuals feeling that the system does not provide adequate protection, and that through reporting they may have left themselves exposed to identification and retaliation, particularly if the incident was carried out by an organized group.
The creation of a system through which individuals can report such cases is a crucial step towards tackling racism, as it gives a voice and support to victims, whilst allowing for policies to be created through the identification of trends.
We hope that this website will promote a culture of reporting racist incidents, whilst developing a better understanding of the state of play of racism in Malta through the compilation of information about such incidents.
March 14th, 2014
European Parliament Elections Candidates encouraged to take a stand against Racism
Candidates in the upcoming European Parliament election were encouraged by The People for Change Foundation to endorse a pledge against racism, and to ensure that political discourse and actions during the campaign do not promote, instigate or condone racism and xenophobia.
In a letter sent to all candidates, the People for Change Foundation recalled the important role that politicians play as opinion leaders in Malta, noting that this implied the need for a strong unequivocal statement by those at the heart of the political stage against racism.
In particular, the pledge calls on candidates:
This call follows a similar initiative conducted in July 2013 with members of the Maltese parliament and other politicians. More information is available on www.pfcmalta.org. Updates from responses by candidates will also be posted on this website.
If you see or experience racism: report it! New service launched by The People for Change Foundation
A new, web-based system (www.reportracism-malta.org) giving victims and witnesses of racism an easy and effective means of reporting their experiences has been launched by The People for Change Foundation, the human rights think tank.
The service is intended to increase reporting of such incidents, to inform individuals about remedies available, and to support them through the process. It will also gather data to help better understand the reality of racism in Malta, and to provide an evidence base that will inform legal and policy development in the area.
The process is simple – if you witness or experience racism in whatever form, you can fill out a form online, which is currently available in Maltese, English and French. If you agree to be contacted, The People for Change Foundation will offer support in the process. This will include provision of information as well as help with filing official reports and following them up.
The need for such a system is clear from the high levels of incidence and low levels of reporting of racist incidents. A report by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) found that an alarming 63 per cent of Africans in Malta experience high levels of discrimination, which is the second highest incidence in the EU. In addition, 29 per cent have fallen victim to racially motivated crime. At the same time, relevant authorities have received only very low numbers of reports, which jars both with the research statistics as well as when compared to the perception that racism is widespread. 85 per cent of victims of racism keep quiet about the abuse they experienced. This troubling statistic, found in a report by the National Commission for the Promotion of Equality (NCPE) is what led the People for Change Foundation to set up Report Racism Malta.
The fact that there is no easily accessible channel allowing those experiencing or witnessing racism to report these cases of discrimination has left many feeling helpless and disempowered (a Fundamental Rights Agency report found that only 11% of African immigrants in Malta knew of the existence of the National Commission for the Promotion of Equality).
Many also believe that their report will fall on deaf ears. At the same time, a perceived lack of action following such reports has led to individuals feeling that the system does not provide adequate protection, and that through reporting they may have left themselves exposed to identification and retaliation, particularly if the incident was carried out by an organized group.
The creation of a system through which individuals can report such cases is a crucial step towards tackling racism, as it gives a voice and support to victims, whilst allowing for policies to be created through the identification of trends.
We hope that this website will promote a culture of reporting racist incidents, whilst developing a better understanding of the state of play of racism in Malta through the compilation of information about such incidents.
March 14th, 2014
European Parliament Elections Candidates encouraged to take a stand against Racism
Candidates in the upcoming European Parliament election were encouraged by The People for Change Foundation to endorse a pledge against racism, and to ensure that political discourse and actions during the campaign do not promote, instigate or condone racism and xenophobia.
In a letter sent to all candidates, the People for Change Foundation recalled the important role that politicians play as opinion leaders in Malta, noting that this implied the need for a strong unequivocal statement by those at the heart of the political stage against racism.
In particular, the pledge calls on candidates:
- To send a consistent and clear message that they reject racism in all its guises
- To deal responsibly and fairly with sensitive topics relating to migrant groups and ethnic minorities, including asylum seekers and refugees; to safeguard their dignity and avoid their stigmatization
- To adopt appropriate, accurate and sensitive language when referring to and discussing migration and migrant groups in order to avoid fuelling xenophobia, unfounded fear, crisis and moral panic
- To condemn, and wherever possible stop, any materials or statements that intentionally or indirectly incite hatred or express prejudice on the grounds of race, colour, nationality or national origin, ethnic background, migrant and legal status or religious belief
- To refrain from political alliance or association with any political party, or organization that incites ethnic prejudice and racial hatred
This call follows a similar initiative conducted in July 2013 with members of the Maltese parliament and other politicians. More information is available on www.pfcmalta.org. Updates from responses by candidates will also be posted on this website.
March 5th, 2014
Threatened Push Back to Libya remains highlight Human Rights Event of 2013 - The People for Change Foundation
The People for Change Foundation, a human rights think tank, has launched the Malta Human Rights Report 2013. The report highlights key developments in the areas of migration, racism and children’s rights over the course of 2013.
The year 2013 will remain known for the threatened pushbacks to Libya which was stopped by an interim measure of the European Court of Human Rights on 9th July, as well as the incident involving the MV Salamis which was instructed by the Maltese and Italian authorities to return rescued migrants to Libya. Both incident raised concerns regarding human rights and maritime migration, most notably relating to the principle of non-refoulement.
Throughout the year, Malta’s policy of mandatory detention continued to come under severe criticism from various national and international entities. Most notably, the European Court of Human Rights found Malta to be in violation of the right to liberty. Of particular concern is the detention of children, a point that was raised by the Committee on the Rights of the Child in its review of Malta.
Efforts were made by various stakeholders with regards to the integration of migrants in Malta despite the lack of an integration policy for Malta. In the area of human trafficking, significant steps have been taken to combat this human rights violation, particularly through the implementation of the national Action Plan on Combating Trafficking in Persons
The report is the first of its kind and covers a year-long term of human rights events in the country. Despite highlighting a number of specific events and judgements, the report points at a number of issues that have been, and remain, ongoing; and demonstrates the need for a stronger and more comprehensive debate on human rights.
About the Malta Human Rights Report
The Malta Human Rights Report is a new initiative of The People for Change Foundation. It aims to provide a snapshot of some of the most pertinent developments in the field of human rights in Malta, particularly those which are of direct relevance to the work undertaken by The People for Change Foundation. As a result, the report largely focuses on issues of migration and racism, as well as children’s rights.
The full report can be accessed at www.pfcmalta.org/malta-human-rights-report.html
Threatened Push Back to Libya remains highlight Human Rights Event of 2013 - The People for Change Foundation
The People for Change Foundation, a human rights think tank, has launched the Malta Human Rights Report 2013. The report highlights key developments in the areas of migration, racism and children’s rights over the course of 2013.
The year 2013 will remain known for the threatened pushbacks to Libya which was stopped by an interim measure of the European Court of Human Rights on 9th July, as well as the incident involving the MV Salamis which was instructed by the Maltese and Italian authorities to return rescued migrants to Libya. Both incident raised concerns regarding human rights and maritime migration, most notably relating to the principle of non-refoulement.
Throughout the year, Malta’s policy of mandatory detention continued to come under severe criticism from various national and international entities. Most notably, the European Court of Human Rights found Malta to be in violation of the right to liberty. Of particular concern is the detention of children, a point that was raised by the Committee on the Rights of the Child in its review of Malta.
Efforts were made by various stakeholders with regards to the integration of migrants in Malta despite the lack of an integration policy for Malta. In the area of human trafficking, significant steps have been taken to combat this human rights violation, particularly through the implementation of the national Action Plan on Combating Trafficking in Persons
The report is the first of its kind and covers a year-long term of human rights events in the country. Despite highlighting a number of specific events and judgements, the report points at a number of issues that have been, and remain, ongoing; and demonstrates the need for a stronger and more comprehensive debate on human rights.
About the Malta Human Rights Report
The Malta Human Rights Report is a new initiative of The People for Change Foundation. It aims to provide a snapshot of some of the most pertinent developments in the field of human rights in Malta, particularly those which are of direct relevance to the work undertaken by The People for Change Foundation. As a result, the report largely focuses on issues of migration and racism, as well as children’s rights.
The full report can be accessed at www.pfcmalta.org/malta-human-rights-report.html
February 17th, 2014
Two Research Projects on Integration Launched
The local human rights think tank, People for Change Foundation, in collaboration with partners from across the European Union, has launched 2 projects on integration of migrants in Malta. The projects, which are co-funded by the European Integration Fund of the European Union, are ‘ASSESS’, led by the Bulgaria-based Centre for the Study of Democracy; and ‘Migrant Integration: Who Benefits?’ led by the Barcelona Centre for International Affairs (CIDOB) and the Migration Policy Group (MPG).
The project ASSESS: The Integration of Vulnerable Migrant Groups, aims to monitor and assess the effectiveness of integration measures for vulnerable migrant groups, particularly women, children and trafficked persons. It does so through identifying the strengths and weaknesses in the application of the Common Basic Principles on Migrant Integration as well as exchanging good practice between EU countries with different migration patterns, regimes and experiences. The ten EU Member States participating in this project will be looking at integration challenges faced by vulnerable migrants and the way such vulnerabilities are accounted for in the monitoring and evaluation of integration measures. The project will develop methods for monitoring the integration of vulnerable migrant groups across the EU formulate recommendations for improving their integration, and raise awareness among national stakeholders of the need to develop vulnerability-sensitive integration processes.
Integration policies: Who Benefits? The development and use of indicators in Integration debates (MIPEX 2015), aims to inform and engage key policy actors on how to use indicators to improve integration governance and policy effectiveness. This will be done by identifying and measuring integration outcomes and integration policies, describing the real and potential beneficiaries of policies; and by collecting and analysing assessments of integration policy effects. This information will pertain to the areas of employment, education, political participation, access to nationality, family re-unification, long term residence and anti-discrimination. The results will be available online through a series of interactive tools.
“These projects come at an important time when integration and vulnerability are both being discussed on the national level. Our aim is to ensure that the rights of migrants, including vulnerable migrants are protected, and that integration measures have the desired positive outcome for all involved” said Jean-Pierre Gauci, co-director of the Foundation. “These projects continue to build on the work we have been doing in the area for the past 7 years”.
Both projects will be taking place over the next 18 months. Further information is available at www.pfcmalta.org.
Two Research Projects on Integration Launched
The local human rights think tank, People for Change Foundation, in collaboration with partners from across the European Union, has launched 2 projects on integration of migrants in Malta. The projects, which are co-funded by the European Integration Fund of the European Union, are ‘ASSESS’, led by the Bulgaria-based Centre for the Study of Democracy; and ‘Migrant Integration: Who Benefits?’ led by the Barcelona Centre for International Affairs (CIDOB) and the Migration Policy Group (MPG).
The project ASSESS: The Integration of Vulnerable Migrant Groups, aims to monitor and assess the effectiveness of integration measures for vulnerable migrant groups, particularly women, children and trafficked persons. It does so through identifying the strengths and weaknesses in the application of the Common Basic Principles on Migrant Integration as well as exchanging good practice between EU countries with different migration patterns, regimes and experiences. The ten EU Member States participating in this project will be looking at integration challenges faced by vulnerable migrants and the way such vulnerabilities are accounted for in the monitoring and evaluation of integration measures. The project will develop methods for monitoring the integration of vulnerable migrant groups across the EU formulate recommendations for improving their integration, and raise awareness among national stakeholders of the need to develop vulnerability-sensitive integration processes.
Integration policies: Who Benefits? The development and use of indicators in Integration debates (MIPEX 2015), aims to inform and engage key policy actors on how to use indicators to improve integration governance and policy effectiveness. This will be done by identifying and measuring integration outcomes and integration policies, describing the real and potential beneficiaries of policies; and by collecting and analysing assessments of integration policy effects. This information will pertain to the areas of employment, education, political participation, access to nationality, family re-unification, long term residence and anti-discrimination. The results will be available online through a series of interactive tools.
“These projects come at an important time when integration and vulnerability are both being discussed on the national level. Our aim is to ensure that the rights of migrants, including vulnerable migrants are protected, and that integration measures have the desired positive outcome for all involved” said Jean-Pierre Gauci, co-director of the Foundation. “These projects continue to build on the work we have been doing in the area for the past 7 years”.
Both projects will be taking place over the next 18 months. Further information is available at www.pfcmalta.org.
December 6th, 2013
Access to Protection IS a Human Right
St. Julian’s, Malta. The People for Change Foundation today launched the results of its project: ‘Access to Protection: A Human Right’. It argued that legal principles arising from international law, and the rulings of the European Court of Human rights clearly place an obligation on Malta to proactively prevent the return of people to countries in which their human rights are at risk.
The report argues that the international law principle of non-refoulement, also enshrined in Maltese law, prevents the return of individuals to countries like Libya irrespective of whether the intervention of the State is one of interception or rescue, and irrespective of whether the activity is carried out by an official vessel or by the State giving instructions to a private rescuing vessel to return migrants to Libya. The principle, as explained by the European Court, entails a series of positive obligations on States, which cannot realistically be met without allowing disembarkation in a safe port. Safety is about more than physical safety. A place of safety is one where one’s human rights are protected as well as one’s physical well-being.
These issues all resound loudly with incidents involving Malta over the summer of 2013. However these were not the only instances where refoulement was an issue for Malta. Other cases include the return of Eritreans in 2002 and a return of 6 individuals to Libya in 2004. In 2010, a group of rescued migrants were arbitrarily split between Malta and Libya, with half being returned to Libya.
‘Sending people back to Libya, directly or indirectly, is in breach of Malta’s international legal obligations’ said Jean-Pierre Gauci, director of The People for Change Foundation. ‘We hope that the analysis undertaken in this report and project can help promote an informed discussion on these issues’.
The Foundation called on Malta to ensure that it abides by its international legal obligations whilst it also called on the European Union to establish real and effective solidarity in dealing with rescued persons. The report recommends making human rights a key feature in any migration-related discussions with Libya. Libya is not a safe place, and individuals should not be returned there, directly or indirectly until such time as their human rights can be adequately secured.
The report published today is a result of an 18-month project by the People for Change Foundation, a human rights’ thinktank, which included desk research, in-depth legal analysis and a roundtable with various stakeholders. The project was funded by the European Programme on Integration and Migration and included similar research in 6 European countries. The report is available online at: www.pfcmalta.org.
December 2nd, 2013
Press Invitation: Launch of Results of Project: Access to protection: A Human Right
On Friday 6th December 2013, The People for Change Foundation will be launching the final report of the project: Access to Protection: A Human Right. The project dealt with the human rights dimensions of push backs under Maltese and International Law. In particular it discusses the implications of incidents over summer 2013.
Who:
Hon. Minister Helena Dalli, Minister will give the opening address
Dr. Jean-Pierre Gauci and Dr. Patricia Mallia, authors of the report will present its main findings.
When:
Friday 6th December
Welcome Coffee at 8.30am for a prompt 9am start
Where:
Carlson Suite, Radisson Blue Hotel, St. Julian’s, Malta
Why:
Summer 2013 saw two incidents involving Malta in which the principle that non one is to be returned to a country in which their human rights would be at risk was threatened. This project, which started in 2012, applies the principles emanating from international law, and in particular the European Court of Human Rights, to the realities of maritime migration in Malta and in particular the incidents of summer 2013.
How:
For interviews or additional information please contact
· Jean-Pierre Gauci on 27780045 or [email protected]
· Christine Cassar on 79471776 or [email protected]
Note:
Further information about the project is available at: http://www.pfcmalta.org/access-to-protection-a-human-right.html
Enclosed:
Overview of the Project
Organisational Profile of The People for Change Foundation
Access to Protection IS a Human Right
St. Julian’s, Malta. The People for Change Foundation today launched the results of its project: ‘Access to Protection: A Human Right’. It argued that legal principles arising from international law, and the rulings of the European Court of Human rights clearly place an obligation on Malta to proactively prevent the return of people to countries in which their human rights are at risk.
The report argues that the international law principle of non-refoulement, also enshrined in Maltese law, prevents the return of individuals to countries like Libya irrespective of whether the intervention of the State is one of interception or rescue, and irrespective of whether the activity is carried out by an official vessel or by the State giving instructions to a private rescuing vessel to return migrants to Libya. The principle, as explained by the European Court, entails a series of positive obligations on States, which cannot realistically be met without allowing disembarkation in a safe port. Safety is about more than physical safety. A place of safety is one where one’s human rights are protected as well as one’s physical well-being.
These issues all resound loudly with incidents involving Malta over the summer of 2013. However these were not the only instances where refoulement was an issue for Malta. Other cases include the return of Eritreans in 2002 and a return of 6 individuals to Libya in 2004. In 2010, a group of rescued migrants were arbitrarily split between Malta and Libya, with half being returned to Libya.
‘Sending people back to Libya, directly or indirectly, is in breach of Malta’s international legal obligations’ said Jean-Pierre Gauci, director of The People for Change Foundation. ‘We hope that the analysis undertaken in this report and project can help promote an informed discussion on these issues’.
The Foundation called on Malta to ensure that it abides by its international legal obligations whilst it also called on the European Union to establish real and effective solidarity in dealing with rescued persons. The report recommends making human rights a key feature in any migration-related discussions with Libya. Libya is not a safe place, and individuals should not be returned there, directly or indirectly until such time as their human rights can be adequately secured.
The report published today is a result of an 18-month project by the People for Change Foundation, a human rights’ thinktank, which included desk research, in-depth legal analysis and a roundtable with various stakeholders. The project was funded by the European Programme on Integration and Migration and included similar research in 6 European countries. The report is available online at: www.pfcmalta.org.
December 2nd, 2013
Press Invitation: Launch of Results of Project: Access to protection: A Human Right
On Friday 6th December 2013, The People for Change Foundation will be launching the final report of the project: Access to Protection: A Human Right. The project dealt with the human rights dimensions of push backs under Maltese and International Law. In particular it discusses the implications of incidents over summer 2013.
Who:
Hon. Minister Helena Dalli, Minister will give the opening address
Dr. Jean-Pierre Gauci and Dr. Patricia Mallia, authors of the report will present its main findings.
When:
Friday 6th December
Welcome Coffee at 8.30am for a prompt 9am start
Where:
Carlson Suite, Radisson Blue Hotel, St. Julian’s, Malta
Why:
Summer 2013 saw two incidents involving Malta in which the principle that non one is to be returned to a country in which their human rights would be at risk was threatened. This project, which started in 2012, applies the principles emanating from international law, and in particular the European Court of Human Rights, to the realities of maritime migration in Malta and in particular the incidents of summer 2013.
How:
For interviews or additional information please contact
· Jean-Pierre Gauci on 27780045 or [email protected]
· Christine Cassar on 79471776 or [email protected]
Note:
Further information about the project is available at: http://www.pfcmalta.org/access-to-protection-a-human-right.html
Enclosed:
Overview of the Project
Organisational Profile of The People for Change Foundation
July 17th, 2013
Pledge for Dignity and Racism
In view of the events surrounding the arrival of asylum seekers in early July 2013 which led to an increase in xenophobic comments in public fora (including the internet), the People for Change Foundation felt that it was both important and necessary for politicians (and particularly Parliamentarians) to make a strong statement against racism. This would signal a commitment by politicians to speak and act in a positive and responsible manner.
This declaration was developed to be signed initially by Members of Parliament, but has now been widened to members of political parties and will in the future be extended further for the signature of MEPs.
Signatories:
Download the list of signatories here (COMING SOON)
The Pledge:
Download the declaration for MPs here (in both Maltese and English)
Download the declaration for politicians here (in both Maltese and English)
Download the declaration for MEPs here (COMING SOON)
Media Coverage:
The Malta Independent Online article: Government MPs Sign Anti-Racism Pledge
Pledge for Dignity and Racism
In view of the events surrounding the arrival of asylum seekers in early July 2013 which led to an increase in xenophobic comments in public fora (including the internet), the People for Change Foundation felt that it was both important and necessary for politicians (and particularly Parliamentarians) to make a strong statement against racism. This would signal a commitment by politicians to speak and act in a positive and responsible manner.
This declaration was developed to be signed initially by Members of Parliament, but has now been widened to members of political parties and will in the future be extended further for the signature of MEPs.
Signatories:
Download the list of signatories here (COMING SOON)
The Pledge:
Download the declaration for MPs here (in both Maltese and English)
Download the declaration for politicians here (in both Maltese and English)
Download the declaration for MEPs here (COMING SOON)
Media Coverage:
The Malta Independent Online article: Government MPs Sign Anti-Racism Pledge
July 11th, 2013
Press Release issued by NGOs including the People for Change Foundation
The NGOs that turned to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) to stop the deportation of Somali migrants to Libya are fully committed to working with the government to seek further support from the European Union and to engage in strategic dialogue on the treatment of migrants in Malta.
We commend the government’s decision to commit to respect the ruling of the ECHR and to refrain from deporting the migrants who arrived on 9 July.
We understand the pressure created by the arrival of irregular migrants and fully support the government’s calls for greater solidarity among member states of the EU and increased understanding of Malta’s particular situation. But resorting to unlawful and harmful means and using innocent people as pawns for a political end is unacceptable.
We will do our utmost to support the government’s efforts to secure greater support from the EU through political means but not if it is at the expense of people’s lives and safety.
Referring to countries such as Libya as part of the solution to the problem of irregular migration is at best premature. Libya is still struggling to recover from decades of authoritarian rule and build a democratic state in a context of instability and lawlessness. It is positive that Libya has shown willingness to sign up to international conventions but that alone certainly does not guarantee full and effective respect for human rights.
We call upon the government to refrain from entering into agreements with Libya about the readmission of migrants until the country is in a position to guarantee their rights effectively. We also urge the government to make the terms of such agreement public so that it may be subject to democratic scrutiny.
We also urge the President of the European Council, Mr Herman Van Rumpoy, who is visiting Malta today, to work to ensure that the Member States of the EU put solidarity into practice by providing effective support for Member States facing particular pressures, such as Malta, to fulfil their obligations to provide protection to all who need it.
aditus foundation, Jesuit Refugee Service (Malta), Migrant’s Network for Equality, SOS Malta, Malta Emigrants’ Commission, KOPIN, Integra Foundation, Foundation for Shelter and Support of Migrants, Organisation for Friendship in Diversity, People for Change Foundation
Press Release issued by NGOs including the People for Change Foundation
The NGOs that turned to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) to stop the deportation of Somali migrants to Libya are fully committed to working with the government to seek further support from the European Union and to engage in strategic dialogue on the treatment of migrants in Malta.
We commend the government’s decision to commit to respect the ruling of the ECHR and to refrain from deporting the migrants who arrived on 9 July.
We understand the pressure created by the arrival of irregular migrants and fully support the government’s calls for greater solidarity among member states of the EU and increased understanding of Malta’s particular situation. But resorting to unlawful and harmful means and using innocent people as pawns for a political end is unacceptable.
We will do our utmost to support the government’s efforts to secure greater support from the EU through political means but not if it is at the expense of people’s lives and safety.
Referring to countries such as Libya as part of the solution to the problem of irregular migration is at best premature. Libya is still struggling to recover from decades of authoritarian rule and build a democratic state in a context of instability and lawlessness. It is positive that Libya has shown willingness to sign up to international conventions but that alone certainly does not guarantee full and effective respect for human rights.
We call upon the government to refrain from entering into agreements with Libya about the readmission of migrants until the country is in a position to guarantee their rights effectively. We also urge the government to make the terms of such agreement public so that it may be subject to democratic scrutiny.
We also urge the President of the European Council, Mr Herman Van Rumpoy, who is visiting Malta today, to work to ensure that the Member States of the EU put solidarity into practice by providing effective support for Member States facing particular pressures, such as Malta, to fulfil their obligations to provide protection to all who need it.
aditus foundation, Jesuit Refugee Service (Malta), Migrant’s Network for Equality, SOS Malta, Malta Emigrants’ Commission, KOPIN, Integra Foundation, Foundation for Shelter and Support of Migrants, Organisation for Friendship in Diversity, People for Change Foundation
| pr_july_11_2013.pdf |
| pr_july_11_2013_-_maltese.pdf |
Press Coverage of the ENAR Shadow Report, as published on March 19th, 2013
March 19th, 2013
Press Release to launch the ENAR Shadow Report on Racism in Malta 2011-2012. This PR is issued in collaboration with ENAR and Integra.
San Gwann, 19th March 2013 - Islamophobia and discrimination against Muslims is widespread in many European countries and prejudice towards Muslims is often greater than that experienced by other religious or ethnic minority groups. This is the conclusion of the first pan-European qualitative survey on Muslim communities in Europe, part of ENAR’s Shadow Report on racism in Europe 2011/12, released on International Day Against Racism. The national report for Malta was prepared by The People for Change Foundation and Integra Foundation and published by the European Network Against Racism.
The report from Malta identifies a number of concerns as well as positive steps over the reporting period. It finds that the Muslim community in Malta is generally homogenised with terms such as ‘Arab’, ‘north African’, ‘illegal to refer to both individuals of a different ethnicity as well as belonging to the Muslim faith.. The report finds that many manifestations of racial and religious discrimination continued to be noted over the reporting period in various spheres of life, including employment, education, housing, healthcare, media, political participation, access to goods and services and the criminal justice process. Instances of hate crime were also reported. On a positive note, the report highlights legal developments including the broadened scope of equality legislation and greater awareness and engagement by NGOs and community organizations within the policy-making sphere, which have started to have a positive impact. Sub-Saharan African migrants continue to be the community most vulnerable to racism and discrimination.
Jean-Pierre Gauci, Director of The People for Change Foundations said: ‘We need to ensure that there is political will to challenge discrimination and promote equality. There is greater need for all stakeholders to work together, and for strategic and coherent actions to be implemented in order to overcome the challenges of racial and religious discrimination in Malta and across Europe’.
For more information and to download the report visit: www.pfcmalta.org or www.enar-eu.org
For further information, contact:
Jean-Pierre Gauci, Director, The People for Change Foundation
Tel: +356 27780045 E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.pfcmalta.org
Georgina Siklossy, ENAR Communication and Press Officer
Tel: +32 (0)2 229 35 70 - E-mail: [email protected] - Website: www.enar-eu.org
Press Release to launch the ENAR Shadow Report on Racism in Malta 2011-2012. This PR is issued in collaboration with ENAR and Integra.
San Gwann, 19th March 2013 - Islamophobia and discrimination against Muslims is widespread in many European countries and prejudice towards Muslims is often greater than that experienced by other religious or ethnic minority groups. This is the conclusion of the first pan-European qualitative survey on Muslim communities in Europe, part of ENAR’s Shadow Report on racism in Europe 2011/12, released on International Day Against Racism. The national report for Malta was prepared by The People for Change Foundation and Integra Foundation and published by the European Network Against Racism.
The report from Malta identifies a number of concerns as well as positive steps over the reporting period. It finds that the Muslim community in Malta is generally homogenised with terms such as ‘Arab’, ‘north African’, ‘illegal to refer to both individuals of a different ethnicity as well as belonging to the Muslim faith.. The report finds that many manifestations of racial and religious discrimination continued to be noted over the reporting period in various spheres of life, including employment, education, housing, healthcare, media, political participation, access to goods and services and the criminal justice process. Instances of hate crime were also reported. On a positive note, the report highlights legal developments including the broadened scope of equality legislation and greater awareness and engagement by NGOs and community organizations within the policy-making sphere, which have started to have a positive impact. Sub-Saharan African migrants continue to be the community most vulnerable to racism and discrimination.
Jean-Pierre Gauci, Director of The People for Change Foundations said: ‘We need to ensure that there is political will to challenge discrimination and promote equality. There is greater need for all stakeholders to work together, and for strategic and coherent actions to be implemented in order to overcome the challenges of racial and religious discrimination in Malta and across Europe’.
For more information and to download the report visit: www.pfcmalta.org or www.enar-eu.org
For further information, contact:
Jean-Pierre Gauci, Director, The People for Change Foundation
Tel: +356 27780045 E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.pfcmalta.org
Georgina Siklossy, ENAR Communication and Press Officer
Tel: +32 (0)2 229 35 70 - E-mail: [email protected] - Website: www.enar-eu.org
