Opinion: Vetting Angst – Do We Really Know Who Is Even Entering Malta?
Malta – as a safe haven, sun-kissed and full of loud welcoming cheers. Sadly, we’re often shown the palatable side of the apple while leaving the rotten part hidden or left undisturbed.
It’s no news that thousands of foreign nationals come to Malta to seek a better future or to simply enjoy the near-easy life should conditions be somewhat pleasing.
While many integrate well and contribute to society, there are unfortunately always a few bad apples that make their way into the basket and this must be rectified by pro-actively increasing a sense of security and instilling awareness.
At present, the vetting of incoming foreigners is not being executed properly, essentially granting a safe passage to all those who wish to hide their backstory and start a clean slate.
While starting anew is worthwhile, we can’t simply just shrug our shoulders when it comes to our own safety.
Malta’s authorities seem to have an inkling of fear when it comes to vetting, and this shows in all aspects where the practice is due. We’ve heard stories of crimes, including murder, committed by individuals who would surely have been denied entry in the first place if proper vetting was conducted.
Without intending to portray a grim image of foreigners, it is often easier to obtain knowledge about Maltese nationals through their families and communities, and this aids and supports enforcement bodies when requested. However, authorities face issues when confronted with cases of migrants who are either not in possession of any identification documents or in possession of falsified ones, thus hiding possible enigmas they may have had or still have.
Obviously, everyone has the right to keep their private affairs to their own, but when it comes to the safety of our nation and its general public, such breaches can be made with minimal effect on invading privacy.
The problem is that in cases where foreign nationals come from places with rampant oppression, corruption and state abuse, such information is likely to be withheld, making it extremely hard to trace relevant data on the individual in concern. Many irregular migrants also change their names, dates of births and other information, making it near impossible to trace back their countries of origin, let alone more personal information.
Mala has seen people of different nationalities and cultures enter from time to time. There have tended to be specified periods in which a particular culture or nationality rises in popularity, with several individuals from that country or culture entering Malta. When that ‘hype’ dies down, another culture ends up taking over.
However, amongst this mass importation of working mules, it’s easy to lose track of who’s who and for the bad bunch to get mixed with the good.
Should we implement more stern policies upon entering Malta? Sound off your opinions below.