Member of the European Parliament Miriam Dalli is among 40 people who made a difference over the past five years, according to the influential publication Politico. Miriam Dalli is the only Maltese on the list and she is recognized for her ability to build strong alliances delivering results in different areas.

Politico named Dalli’s work in areas such as climate, environment and migration, where she succeeded in building alliances in support of a strong legislation despite the objections of conservative forces and powerful lobbies. In December, Politico also listed Miriam Dalli as a politician set to influence European politics in 2019.

"I believe this is a clear message that we can make a difference, irrespective of where we come from. With perseverance and determination, we can make positive change," Miriam Dalli said in a reaction to the result.

"I spent these five years working for what I believe in. There were tough negotiations but I worked to bring together different positions - of political groups, the industry and stakeholders. I did this because I believe in the change that we want to bring for our citizens... for our children."

She added that if re-elected, “I will work with the same will and determination on those policies that can take Malta to the next level in terms of quality of life and work."

Miriam Dalli was first elected to the European Parliament in 2014, on behalf of the Labor Party. The Politico list of 40 persons was chosen from a total of 751 MEPs. The other 39 hail from 18 different countries and includes former MEPs who resigned to lead important roles at home.

During these five years, Dr Dalli focused her work on legislations that can make a difference in people's lives.

More specifically, through her work to reduce pollution from cars, Miriam Dalli saw an opportunity to address the environment, climate change, respiratory health, innovation in manufacturing, job opportunities and deliver better advantages for consumers. The legislation will be signed next week in Strasbourg.

In the area of ​​migration, she worked on legislation to regulate a fund of €10.4 billion to be used by all EU member states. Miriam Dalli sought to establish solidarity as one of the Fund’s priorities, in order to deliver concrete solidarity with frontline Member States like Malta, Italy, Greece and Spain. This legislative proposal was approved by the European Parliament and negotiations with Member States are expected to commence in autumn.