Maltese-Arab marriages : a measuring-rod of Maltese racism

Abstract

Anti-Arab sentiments in Malta are tangible in the various aspects of social life. As the main aim of this study was to qualify rather than quantify the degree of racism against Arabs in Malta, deliberations focus on Maltese-Arab married couples, due to their multifaceted experiences in this regard. The research consisted in interviewing sessions intended to explore manifestations of racial prejudices and discrimination; namely at the workplace, public venues, and governmental departments; and by relatives, friends, neighbours, and the local media. The analysis of local newspapers was employed as an additional source of information in order to support or refute affirmations made during the interviews. This work betrays the fact that religion is definitely a crucial factor, which affects thoroughly Maltese-Arab relations in Malta. On the other hand the local media has proved seminal in producing and perpetuating anti-Arab sentiments. Through scrutiny of the latter considerations the researcher tried to (i) outline the real causes of Arabophobia and, accordingly, (ii) evaluate the possibility of pluralistic integration of Arab nationals in Maltese society.