Malta's Migration Policy Under Scrutiny Amid Minister's 'Victory' Claims and Human Rights Concerns

Minister Declares Success in Migration Management

Malta's Home Affairs Minister, Byron Camilleri, recently announced a significant achievement in the country's migration management strategy, stating that Malta is no longer classified among Mediterranean states under pressure by the European Union. Speaking in parliament, Camilleri highlighted a 93% reduction in irregular migrant arrivals over the past five years, comparing figures from 2019 to 2024. He attributed this decline to a 'tough policy towards those who abuse the system and compassionate towards those who need help,' emphasizing Malta's 'amongst the highest return rates to third countries,' approaching 80%. The Minister also noted the establishment of dedicated returns units within his ministry as pivotal to this success, asserting that Malta is now considered a 'model country' in this regard and no longer requires EU assistance for irregular migration.

Human Rights Organizations Allege Illegal Pushbacks and Non-Assistance

Despite the government's declarations, a coalition of human rights organizations has raised serious concerns, accusing Malta of systematic violations of international law, including illegal pushbacks and deadly non-assistance to migrants at sea. Organizations such as Amnesty International, Sea-Watch, Human Rights Watch, and Alarm Phone contend that the reduction in arrivals is linked to practices that endanger lives. The Malta Migration Archive, a digital platform, revealed that between 2020 and 2024, Malta rescued only 2 to 3 percent of nearly 80,000 people in distress within its search and rescue zone. During the same period, rescues by the Armed Forces of Malta reportedly decreased by 90%, while interceptions by Libyan forces, often operating with Maltese coordination, surged by 230%.

International Scrutiny and Accusations of Refoulement

Human rights groups argue that Malta's maritime coordination agreement with Libya, in place since 2020, facilitates the forcible return of migrants to a country where they face severe human rights abuses. Libya has not signed the 1951 Refugee Convention, and the United Nations has explicitly stated that it is not a safe port for disembarkation. Reports indicate that more than 5,000 people were repatriated to Libya from areas under Maltese responsibility between 2020 and 2024, with many allegedly ending up in detention centers where 'murder, torture, rape and exploitation are documented'. Over 1,700 people died at sea during this period, and more than 21,000 were forced back to Libya. The European Centre for Constitutional and Human Rights and Sea-Watch even filed a communication with the International Criminal Court prosecutor in 2022, accusing high-ranking Maltese officials, including Prime Minister Robert Abela, of potential 'crimes against humanity' for their alleged role in coordinating unlawful pushbacks.

Divergent Narratives on Migration Policy

The stark contrast between the Maltese government's narrative of effective migration management and the severe criticisms from human rights organizations highlights an ongoing and deeply contentious debate. While Minister Camilleri emphasizes a 'tough but fair' approach and high return rates as evidence of success, critics point to the human cost and alleged breaches of international law. The controversy underscores the complex challenges faced by Mediterranean states in managing migration flows while upholding international obligations and human rights standards.