Equality commission calls for end to ‘alarmist discourse’ about migrants in 2019

The National Commission for the Promotion of Equality (NCPE) has called for more responsibility in public statements concerning migrants in 2019, particularly on the part of persons who find themselves in the public eye.

“Discussing issues connected to migration, its dynamics and its management is essential in a democratic society and this discussion will certainly continue taking centre stage in 2019,” the commission said in a statement.

“However, these discussions should always be based on the belief that migrants are persons with human rights and dignity as everybody else, and that they are an integral part of our society.”

The NCPE noted that migrants were too often dehumanized in public discourse.

“Depicting migrants in stereotypical ways, and making wild generalisations about their experiences and behaviour, or seeing their mere presence in a locality as a ‘problem’ leads to whole social groups becoming considered as a threat simply because of their skin-colour or cultural background.”

It stressed that such depictions, especially when promoted by public figures, have a very negative social impact since they “reinforce social distance, exacerbate social tensions and hinder the path towards inclusion”.

The NCPE added that whilst challenges brought about by migration should be acknowledged and addressed, “alarmist discourse” that does not match the reality on the ground only creates a “negative and hostile environment for everyone”.   

“In 2019, the NCPE would like to see a debate on migration that includes a level-headed discussion about problems and concerns in this area, but that also recognizes the social, cultural and economic contribution of migrants in Malta.”