From October 3, 2013, to today, over 20,000 migrants and refugees have died or have gone missing in the Mediterranean Sea. With every death of a child, woman, and man who lost their lives in a desperate attempt to find protection and a better life in Europe, humanity is increasingly diminishing the right to be called human. Being human demands an obligation not to turn a blind eye to the suffering of others, and taking responsibility for our individual and collective actions.
We have a clear and present responsibility not to let humanity drown; solidarity and compassion can be above water only if we are aware and decide to take action.
In view of the current discussion on a new European Union Migration Pact, we call for a change of European migration policies in a way that shows our humanity. Any new pact should not be based on the closure of borders or on deportations, but on policies that respect fundamental European values: human dignity, equality, democracy, and respect for human rights.
Malta, in particular, needs to review its current migration system. Emphasis should be put on engaging in active dialogue that discusses real and perceived challenges Maltese communities are facing. However, extremist and populist viewpoints, hate speech, and any form of racism, cannot be allowed to be part of the conversation.
We, therefore, call once again on the EU institutions to officially recognise the 3rd October as a Day of Memory and Welcome. It aims at enabling Europe to commemorate and reflect on these tragic human losses. It is a day in which we remember the past, pledge to correct the present, and to envision our common European future of solidarity and respect for all human lives. Our humanity demands it.
