The Malta Refugee Council has urged the government to establish a Humanitarian Coordination Committee to help Ukrainian refugees arriving in Malta.

In a statement, the council said the EU's rapid response has so far been impressive. Triggering the Temporary Protection Directive, as the best measure to ensure the safety and dignity of millions of Ukrainian refugees, was a welcome initiative by the Malta Refugee Council.

The council said its members have been providing services and support to Ukrainians, with some members active in Ukraine itself.

It said its experiences with similar situations in the past underline one fundamental operational strategy: Governmental, intergovernmental and non-governmental entities must act together in a coordinated manner to achieve the best results.

“Whilst we will certainly continue doing our utmost, as we have always done with all other refugees in Malta, it is clear that regular technical discussions are needed in order for Malta to be best prepared to deal with this war, and to welcome its refugees. Lack of certainty on procedures, entitlements, documentation and services is already affecting our ability to provide our services, and it must be equally problematic for agencies such as APPOĠĠ, AWAS, IPA, Immigration Police, etc.”

The council strongly urged Malta to urgently establish, under auspices of the Office of the Prime Minister, a Humanitarian Coordination Committee.

The Committee, which should be composed of representatives of relevant entities (e.g. IPA, Health, Police, FSWS, Jobsplus, ID Malta, MFA, CPD, UNHCR, IOM, NGOs, Ukrainian community), should meet on a regular basis in order to agree upon protocols, guidelines and procedures. At times like these, strong and value-based leadership is key.

“There is also the need for Government to welcome the nation’s generosity towards Ukrainian refugees, whilst simultaneously ensuring the protection of the most vulnerable. Such a concerted approach is not only necessary but the most efficient method for Malta to effectively live up to the Commissioner's promise to the Ukrainian people.”