Malta has ranked 33rd out of the 38 countries assessed in terms of migrant integration. Over the last 7 years integration in Malta has become increasingly restrictive, whilst public attitude towards migrants and integration remains a critical barrier to effective integration. The national integration strategy that is currently being developed is an opportunity to tackle these issues and to significantly improve Malta’s track record on migrant integration. These are some of the main findings of the Migrant Integration Policy Index (MIPEX) launched today. Malta scored at 40% on the index, making it ‘slightly unfavourable’ for integration.
The Migrant Integration Policy Index (MIPEX) is the most comprehensive, reliable and used tool to compare what governments are doing to promote the integration of migrants across Europe and the world. 168 policy indicators, covering 8 policy areas, have been developed to create a rich, multi-dimensional picture of migrants’ opportunities to participate in society. 38 countries are assessed. The fourth edition of this project is led by the Barcelona Centre for International Affairs (CIDOB) and the Migration Policy Group (MPG). The national partner in Malta is The People for Change Foundation, a human rights think tank.
This year’s study made a number of key findings. Access to education for migrant children is guaranteed but insufficient support is provided for teachers and students as well as promoting and supporting higher education and the recognition of qualifications. A number of new initiatives are being developed and implemented in this area that can help considerably improve Malta’s score in this regard. Other positive developments include the opening of the possibility of acquiring long-term residence for beneficiaries of subsidiary protection although the new integration test requirements have made long-term residence more difficult to acquire for all migrants. Family reunification remains difficult for all third country nationals in Malta. Despite weaknesses, anti-discrimination legislation remains Malta’s strongest dimension on migrant integration.
A number of recommendations are made in the report, including the need to increase political will and public support for integration by informing media/public discourse, producing annual assessments of integration on the basis of specific indicators and systematically evaluating all integration initiatives as well as the need to develop clear integration goals and commitments in all relevant areas through the integration strategy that is currently being developed. Any integration efforts must address the specific needs of vulnerable migrant. More awareness raising with communities and stakeholders regarding rights is also required.