Youth work in the borderlands : reflections from Malta

Abstract

As Malta is located at the centre of the Mediterranean, migration is a familiar part of the Maltese narrative. The languages, the food, the architecture, customs and traditions all bear witness to the 7 000 years of colonisation and the myriad of people who have made the Maltese islands their home. Despite migration movements to and from Malta, until a few years ago, the Maltese population was perceived as relatively homogenous. Accession to the European Union (EU) in 2004 brought new possibilities for migration, new opportunities for the Maltese to look beyond the blue borders, and also for others from the EU and beyond to make Malta their home. For the majority, migration has afforded the possibility to seek adventure, to explore different lifestyles, and to pursue employment prospects. For others, migration has served as an escape route. Since 2002, Malta has witnessed the arrival of asylum seekers, departing from the coast of North Africa. The vast majority are young people. They have risked their lives crossing the Mediterranean Sea in a desperate effort to flee violence, war, persecution, insecurity and human rights violations. They have made the journey in the hope of finding safety, security, and the promise of economic opportunities and a dignified future.