The undersigned NGOs commend the decision taken by the Government of Malta to receive the 356 migrants and refugees saved at sea by the Ocean Viking.

For two long weeks, the rescued men, women and children were abandoned on a rescue vessel, forced to endure the scorching heat, uncertainty and ongoing precarity.

Once again, the European Member States have dragged their feet and unnecessarily prolonged human suffering. The principles of solidarity, considered to be a cornerstone of the Union, must take front and centre – first and foremost with those risking their lives to access protection, and also with the external border Member States who cannot be expected to continue carrying the consequences of political inadequacy and deadlock at the European level.

We remind the Member States of their legal, political and moral responsibilities and call on them to do much better.

Statement issued by:

African Media Association

Catholic Voices Malta

Department of Gender Studies

Department of Youth & Community Studies

Drachma LGBTI

Drachma Parents Group

Integra Foundation

Jesuit Refugee Service (Malta)

Kopin

Malta Emigrants Commission

Moviment Graffitti

Office of the Dean Faculty of Education

Office of the Dean, Faculty for Social Wellbeing

Richmond Foundation

SOS Malta

Spark 15

St. Jeanne Antide Foundation (SJAF)

The Critical Institute

Women’s Rights Foundation