A Legacy of Hope: The Story of Malta’s First Shelter for Asylum Seekers

In the heart of Marsa, a bustling town just south of Malta’s capital, stands a building that’s more than just a structure. It’s a symbol of hope, resilience, and a testament to Malta’s evolving stance on migration. This is Hal Far Open Centre, Malta’s first and only open shelter for asylum seekers.

From Military Base to Haven of Hope

Hal Far’s journey began in the 1930s as a British military base. Post-independence, it served as a detention centre for immigrants. But in 2018, a shift occurred. Malta, under pressure from the EU to address its migrant crisis, transformed Hal Far into an open centre, a place where asylum seekers could live while their claims were processed.

The change wasn’t just physical. It was cultural, too. The Maltese government, with the help of NGOs like JRS Malta and the Red Cross, turned Hal Far into a community. A place where hope could take root amidst the chaos of migration.

Life at Hal Far: More Than Just a Shelter

Today, Hal Far is home to around 400 individuals from various countries – Syria, Iraq, Somalia, and more. It’s a microcosm of the global refugee crisis, right here in Malta. But it’s also a place of support, learning, and growth.

Here, asylum seekers can access legal aid, medical care, and psychological support. They can learn English, attend vocational training, and even start their own businesses. There’s a sense of community, too. Residents cook together, share stories, and celebrate cultural festivals.

Take, for instance, the story of Ahmed*, a Syrian refugee who arrived in Malta in 2018. “When I first came,” he says, “I felt lost, alone. But Hal Far gave me a sense of belonging. I learned English, started a small business, and now, I’m helping others too.”

Challenges and Hopes: The Road Ahead

Hal Far’s journey hasn’t been smooth. Overcrowding, lack of resources, and the pandemic have posed challenges. But despite these hurdles, hope persists. Hope for a fair process, for a chance to build a new life, and for Malta to continue its evolution as a welcoming society.

Malta’s Minister for Home Affairs and National Security, Byron Camilleri, echoes this sentiment. “Hal Far is more than a shelter,” he says. “It’s a testament to our commitment to treating migrants with dignity and respect. We’ve come a long way, but there’s still much to do.”

As Malta continues to navigate its role in the migrant crisis, Hal Far stands as a reminder of the power of hope and the importance of compassion. It’s a legacy that’s still being written, one story at a time.