President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca said that immediate action needs to be taken against people smugglers.
Speaking during the Cross Culture International Foundation, Malta conference funded by the Europe for Citizens programme in partnership with NGO’s from various countries, Mrs Colerio Preca said the project encouraged European Union citizens to speak on the issue of migration, thereby also encouraging civic participation.
“Unfortunately, we often hear negative and misguided comments and arguments on the issue of migration, overlooking both the humane aspects and the inherent complexity of the phenomenon, which impacts society in many different ways and calls for a variety of responses, including a coherent and comprehensive approach in order to reap the benefits and address the challenges deriving from migration.
“Over the past decade, the Mediterranean and European regions have experienced a growing influx of migrants.
“The plight of thousands of migrants putting their lives in peril to cross the Mediterranean has shocked us all. At this very moment, the number of people crossing on land through Europe has stunned politicians into promising action, and has certainly caught the attention of the media, and of everyone with a heart to care,” she said.
“Some migrants are seeking asylum from political oppression, violence and unrest, or poverty; or as a result of climate change.
“Some come from countries where the ravages of war make it imperative for people to seek safety and flee for their lives. Yet others are economic migrants looking for a better future for themselves and their children.
“There are many different aspects of migration that need not only to be brought to the fore, but also that require action. And action needs to be taken now!
“We need to strengthen operations to save lives at sea by stepping up search and rescue operations.
“At the same time, we need to work by addressing the root causes of migration in closer cooperation with countries of origin and transit in the Mediterranean and in Africa.
“I also believe that immediate action needs to be taken against criminal people smuggling networks. I believe that an international anti-human smuggling coalition, mandated by the United Nations, should be set up and given a mandate to intervene to disrupt smugglers of persons who are making a profit from their plight.
“We need to think about ways how people in peril are protected and their human rights upheld. We need to think in the longer term so that future generations are spared these tragedies and the loss of life is transformed into respect for diversity and inclusion at all levels.
“There are many push and pull factors that influence migration flows, but the bottom line remains the same. The opportunities that exist in Western society offer hope of a better life. For some, they offer the promise of life itself,” she continued.