Ukrainian woman says Malta rules ignore the conflict she fled

A Heartfelt Plea from a Ukrainian Refugee

On a sun-drenched afternoon in Valletta, I met Kateryna, a 34-year-old Ukrainian woman who fled her war-torn homeland just over a year ago. As she recounted her journey, her eyes flickered with both hope and despair. Kateryna had arrived in Malta seeking safety, but now finds herself caught in a web of rules and regulations that seem to overlook the very conflict she fled. Her story is not just hers; it resonates with many who have sought refuge on this small island.

The Challenges of Refuge in Malta

Malta has become a destination for many war refugees, but the processes governing their residency can feel overwhelming. Kateryna’s experience highlights the stark reality faced by many Ukrainians here. On paper, Malta offers protection, yet in practice, the bureaucratic hurdles can be daunting. “I had hoped for more understanding,” she said, her voice trembling slightly. “We are not just statistics; we are people with stories.”

Upon her arrival, Kateryna was granted temporary protection status, a lifeline for many fleeing the ongoing conflict. However, as she began to navigate Malta’s system, she quickly realised that the rules were often rigid and impersonal. “Every form I filled out seemed to lack any consideration for why I was here,” she explained. The lengthy wait times for processing applications and the lack of clear communication only added to her frustration.

Local Support Systems: A Double-Edged Sword

Many NGOs and community groups in Malta have stepped up to provide assistance to refugees, including the Ukrainian community. Local organisations like the Malta Red Cross and the Jesuit Refugee Service have been instrumental in offering food, legal aid, and emotional support. Yet, as Kateryna pointed out, while these resources are invaluable, they often come with their own sets of limitations.

“I appreciate the help, but sometimes it feels like we are just a project,” she said. “There’s a lack of resources, and the volunteers are stretched thin.” The reliance on these organisations highlights the gaps in government support. Many refugees, including Kateryna, feel that the Maltese authorities should do more to streamline processes and make them more human-centric.

Living in Limbo: The Reality of Daily Life

Adjusting to life in Malta has not been easy for Kateryna. The vibrant streets of Valletta, with their historical architecture and bustling cafes, hold a stark contrast to the life she left behind. “Sometimes, I feel guilty for enjoying the beauty here,” she said, staring out at the azure Mediterranean. “But I also know I need to find joy again.”

She is currently living in a shared apartment in Sliema with other refugees, which helps alleviate some of the financial burdens. However, finding steady employment has proven challenging. “Employers see my status and hesitate,” she lamented. “I want to work, to contribute, but it feels like I’m stuck in this limbo.”

The Call for Policy Change

Kateryna is not alone in her frustrations. Many Ukrainian refugees have voiced similar concerns about the Maltese legal framework. Calls for reform have been growing louder, with activists urging the government to reassess its approach to refugee policy. “We need a system that acknowledges our trauma and allows us to rebuild our lives,” she emphasised.

The Ukrainian community in Malta has become increasingly vocal, organising protests and awareness campaigns to push for changes. They seek not just better integration processes, but a recognition of their plight as individuals fleeing war. “We want to be seen as more than just refugees,” Kateryna shared. “We are artists, teachers, mothers—we have skills and dreams.”

Hope and Resilience Amidst Adversity

Despite the challenges, Kateryna remains hopeful. She has begun learning English and has even taken up painting, a passion that brings her solace. “Art helps me express what words cannot,” she said, smiling softly as she showed me some of her recent works. “It’s a way for me to connect with my identity.”

Local art initiatives have embraced her talent, offering platforms for Ukrainian artists to showcase their work. This support has been a beacon of light amidst the struggles. “I feel less alone when I create,” Kateryna explained. “Art transcends borders.”

A Call for Solidarity from the Maltese Community

The situation in Ukraine remains dire, and the need for solidarity is more crucial than ever. Kateryna’s story is just one of many, highlighting the importance of community support for those affected by the war. The Maltese people have shown remarkable kindness, but there is still room for growth in understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by refugees.

As we wrapped up our conversation, Kateryna expressed a wish that resonates with many: “I hope that one day, my story will be a testament to resilience, and that I can help others in similar situations.” Her courage is a reminder that, even in the face of adversity, hope can flourish.

For those who wish to offer support, there are numerous ways to get involved—from volunteering with local charities to simply extending a hand to a newcomer. Every small gesture counts and can make a world of difference in the lives of those who have faced unimaginable hardships.

In the heart of Valletta, as the sun sets over the Grand Harbour, we are reminded that compassion knows no borders. Let’s come together to ensure that Kateryna and many others like her find not just refuge, but a place to call home.

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