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Meet Matthias Iannis Portelli, The Progressive MEP Candidate Promising A ‘Radical Change For The Better’

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Matthias Iannis Portelli is a 21-year-old budding politician who’s looking to serve as a progressive alternative in this year’s upcoming MEP elections.

Portelli is a member of the pan-European party Volt that’s vowed to take a pragmatic approach to politics, and instead of viewing matters from a national perspective, it views them “from a European perspective with European solutions”.

Portelli completely encapsulates this spirit, as he reads for his Master’s in International Security Studies he’ll be campaigning to earn a seat as a Member of the European Parliament to address the issue closest to his heart: affordable housing in liveable cities.

This article is part of a Lovin Malta series with MEP candidates ahead of the upcoming election. The same questions are being asked to every single candidate and their answers are being published in their entirety.

1. What made you want to run for the MEP elections?

To tackle this loaded answer, I shall give you a threefold answer.
My desire to run for the MEP elections stems from a commitment to offering an alternative approach and solution to how politics is done in Malta and the EU. My aim is to present a progressive alternative, one that champions a better Malta, and a better EU-rope. With that in mind, I am standing in this election because I am committed to delivering on this goal of a new kind of politics, a goal which my party
and I hold dear.

However, as we all understand, third parties face an uphill struggle, akin to any endeavour to achieve progress. Recognising that this will take time, I know it is imperative to start now rather than wait for tomorrow. In the end, it is about building trust and confidence with the public and through my candidacy, I aim to pledge my allegiance to the general public and to my ideals, somewhat marking that ‘hey change is indeed possible’.

Having felt politically homeless and frustrated by the toxic level of dichotomy in Malta, my decision to run is also an effort to counteract this and demonstrate to the public that there is a viable political alternative. This is me doing my part now to challenge the current state of reality and show that there is a political alternative, one built on optimism and an ambitious vision to radically change things for the better, and not one that feeds into anxiety and fear that triggers division.

2. Why should the public vote for you in the upcoming election?

By voting for me, you’re championing innovative policies, proactive change, and a long-term vision for progress. You’re choosing a party with youthful dynamism committed to transparency, a stronger Europe, and unparalleled European collaboration. Being a Volt Malta MEP candidate means being part of the pan-European movement running across several EU states with a shared name and programme.

This unity allows us to tackle challenges collectively, in stark contrast to candidates from other parties who, once elected, have to compromise between their own national party’s views and those of other national parties in the EPP, S&D etc. Your vote for me is a vote for a cohesive, forward-thinking Europe; a promise for a progressive, innovative, and united Europe – where collaboration and consistent values lead the way in shaping a better future for all of us.

3. What is the main issue/top priority you would be focusing on if you were to be elected?

Volt has several policy objectives for the EU 2024 to 2029 term, however, the issue which is closest to my heart is access to affordable housing in liveable cities. Younger generations are increasingly priced out of the market, and not just in Malta. Volt wants the EU to directly support and fund Support and fund innovative housing models, such as co-housing, rent-to-own and lifelong renting programmes, to reduce the concentration of housing wealth and ease the financial barriers to home ownership. To make cities liveable we want to dedicate EU funds to the development of green infrastructure and shift toward ’15-minute cities’ which would be very practical for Malta’s size.

4. Can you mention one weakness and one strength of the EU?

The EU’s greatest strength lies in the symbolism it embodies – unity, peace, prosperity, and stability. This collective identity not only enhances the capabilities and distinctiveness of its member states but also bolsters our international standing, giving us a more influential voice on the global stage.

However, the EU can be somewhat disconnected from the everyday realities of its citizens, particularly those in peripheral areas. While the intentions behind EU policies are commendable, there is often a gap in effective execution, highlighting a need for improvement in how policies are implemented and how closely they align with citizens’ needs.

5. Tell us who your favourite candidate is from another party?

My favorite candidate is likely Mina from the ADPD, whose principles I deeply respect. As a relatively new figure in the political arena, I find their presence to be refreshing and a positive influence on the political landscape.


6. And finally, if you weren’t running, who would you vote for?

I’d say Mina Tolu.

This action was co-financed by the European Union in the frame of the European Parliament’s grant programme in the field of communication. The European Parliament was not involved in its preparation and is, in no case, responsible for or bound by the information or opinions expressed in the context of this action. In accordance with applicable law, the authors, interviewed people, publishers or programme broadcasters are solely responsible. The European Parliament can also not be held liable for direct or indirect damage that may result from the implementation of the action.

Would you like to see Matthias Iannis Portelli represent Malta at the European Parliament?

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Ana is a university graduate who loves a heated debate, she’s very passionate about humanitarian issues and justice. In her free time you’ll probably catch her binge watching way too many TV shows or thinking about her next meal.

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