A number of NGOs today commended the decision taken by the Government of Malta to receive the 356 migrants and refugees saved at sea by the Ocean Viking. 

For two long weeks, the rescued men, women and children were abandoned on a rescue vessel, forced to endure the scorching heat and uncertainty. 

Once again, the European Member States dragged their feet and unnecessarily prolonged human suffering. The principles of solidarity, considered to be a cornerstone of the Union, must take front and centre – first and foremost with those risking their lives to access protection, and also with the external border Member States who cannot be expected to continue carrying the consequences of political inadequacy and deadlock at the European level. 

“We remind the Member States of their legal, political and moral responsibilities and call on them to do much better,” the NGOs said.      

Statement issued by:

1. aditus foundation 2. African Media Association 3. Catholic Voices Malta 4. Department of Gender Studies, University of Malta 5. Department of Youth & Community Studies, University of Malta 6. Drachma LGBTI  7. Drachma Parents Group 8. Integra Foundation 9. Jesuit Refugee Service (Malta) 10. Kopin 11. Malta Emigrants Commission 12. Moviment Graffitti 13. Office of the Dean Faculty of Education, University of Malta  14. Office of the Dean, Faculty for Social Wellbeing, University of Malta 15. Richmond Foundation 16. SOS Malta 17. Spark 15 18. St. Jeanne Antide Foundation (SJAF) 19. The Critical Institute 20. Women’s Rights Foundation