Ukrainian woman says Malta rules ignore the conflict she fled

A Woman’s Journey from Ukraine to Malta

On a bright Sunday morning in Valletta, a Ukrainian woman stands outside a quaint café on Republic Street, her brow furrowed with worry. She stirs her coffee absentmindedly while scanning the bustling scene around her. The laughter of local families fills the air, a stark contrast to the echoes of air raid sirens that haunted her hometown just months ago. She fled the conflict in Ukraine, seeking safety and a chance at a new life in Malta. Yet, the very rules intended to protect her now feel like barriers, making her journey far more complicated than she ever imagined.

Escaping War: The Journey to Malta

When the bombs began falling in Kyiv, Oksana (name changed for privacy) made the heart-wrenching decision to leave behind her home, her job, and her life as she knew it. Like many other Ukrainians, she was driven by a desperate need for safety. The journey from Ukraine to Malta was fraught with uncertainty, involving a series of trains, buses, and planes. She finally landed at Malta International Airport, exhausted but relieved to be out of harm’s way.

Upon her arrival, Oksana was greeted by volunteers from various NGOs who provided food and shelter for Ukrainian refugees. She found temporary accommodation in a small flat in Sliema, just a stone’s throw from the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. The initial relief of being safe quickly gave way to the challenges of adapting to a new culture and navigating a different legal scene.

Understanding the Legal Framework

Malta, like many European countries, implemented specific regulations to accommodate the influx of Ukrainian refugees. However, Oksana soon discovered that these rules, while well-intentioned, often overlooked the individual circumstances of those fleeing conflict. For instance, the process to obtain temporary protection status seemed to be more complicated than she expected, with paperwork and bureaucratic hurdles making it difficult to settle into her new life.

The government offers assistance in various forms, such as housing and financial support, but Oksana feels that the process is too rigid and does not take into account the personal stories of the refugees. She has been unable to secure a job in her field—she was a graphic designer back in Ukraine—because the legal status required to work is still pending. Every day spent waiting is a day she feels she is losing, both in terms of her career and her mental health.

Personal Stories Amid Policy Challenges

Oksana’s story is just one of many that reflect the complexities faced by Ukrainian refugees in Malta. Various local organizations have stepped up to provide support, such as the Malta Chamber of Commerce, which has been actively working to connect refugees with job opportunities. Yet, despite these efforts, many refugees feel lost in a system that seems indifferent to their plight.

Another Ukrainian woman, Kateryna, who now lives in Birkirkara, echoed similar sentiments. She has been volunteering at local shelters and helping with community outreach, but like Oksana, she finds herself struggling with the legalities of her situation. “Sometimes, it feels like the rules are designed without us in mind,” she says. “We just want to contribute to society, to start over, but the system makes it hard.”

The Role of Local NGOs and Community Support

Despite the challenges, there are rays of hope in the form of local NGOs and community initiatives that have sprung up to assist Ukrainian refugees. Organizations such as the Red Cross Malta and the Jesuit Refugee Service offer legal aid, emotional support, and even language classes to help refugees acclimate to their new surroundings. These initiatives have become lifelines for many, giving them the tools they need to rebuild their lives.

In the heart of Valletta, community centres have opened their doors to provide a safe space for Ukrainian families. These centres often host cultural events, allowing refugees to share their traditions while fostering a sense of belonging in a foreign land. Oksana has participated in several workshops where she teaches art to children, finding joy in connecting with others despite the circumstances that brought them together.

A Call for Change

As Oksana continues to await her legal status, she remains hopeful for a future where her skills can be put to use. She dreams of a day when she can contribute to the Maltese economy, perhaps even starting her own design studio. However, she also feels a strong need for change in the legal framework that governs the lives of refugees like her.

“We are not just numbers or statistics,” she asserts. “We are people with dreams, talents, and the desire to contribute. I hope that the authorities can see us as individuals rather than just a wave of refugees.”

: Bridging the Gap

The Maltese government has expressed its commitment to supporting Ukrainian refugees, but there is still much work to be done. Advocates are calling for more flexible policies that take into account the unique experiences of individuals fleeing conflict. They urge decision-makers to engage with refugees directly to understand their needs and aspirations.

As Oksana sips her coffee, she looks out over the bustling streets of Valletta. She sees a future filled with possibility, but it requires collaboration between the government, NGOs, and the local community. “Together, we can create a space where everyone feels welcome and valued,” she says, her eyes bright with determination. “I believe that Malta can be a home for us all.”

As Malta continues to be a refuge for those fleeing conflict, it’s essential for both the government and the community to listen to the voices of the refugees. By fostering a more inclusive environment, Malta can thrive not only as a haven for those escaping war but also as a diverse and united society.

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