Trump’s Legacy: A Dark Cloud Over Malta and the World

As the sun sets over the Grand Harbour in Valletta, the city’s iconic skyline is bathed in a warm, orange glow. Yet, the warmth of this scene is starkly contrasted by the chilling reality of the Trump regime’s legacy, which casts a long, dark shadow across the globe, including our tiny island nation.

1. Climate Change Denial: A Slap in the Face to Our Mediterranean Paradise

Malta, with its Mediterranean climate and coastal beauty, is no stranger to the impacts of climate change. Yet, under Trump’s watch, the U.S. withdrew from the Paris Agreement, the world’s most significant climate accord. This move was a slap in the face to our island, which is already grappling with rising sea levels and increased storm intensity.

Locally, we’ve seen the effects firsthand. The Great Siege Bell in Valletta has been ringing alarm bells, quite literally, warning of incoming storm surges. The once-bustling Marsamxett Harbour, now a ghostly reminder of its former glory, is a stark testament to the rising sea levels that threaten our coastal communities.

2. Immigration Policies: A Stain on Our Shared Humanity

Malta, a nation of immigrants, knows all too well the struggles faced by those seeking a better life. Yet, Trump’s zero-tolerance policy at the U.S.-Mexico border, which led to the separation of thousands of migrant children from their parents, was a stain on our shared humanity.

Here in Malta, we’ve seen our own share of migrant crises, from the Lampedusa in Malta tragedy in 2013 to the ongoing struggles of migrants arriving on our shores. Trump’s policies served as a grim reminder of the dehumanizing treatment faced by those seeking refuge, even as we grappled with our own migrant challenges.

3. Attacks on the Press: A Threat to Our Democratic Values

Malta, with its vibrant media scene, understands the importance of a free press. Yet, Trump’s relentless attacks on the media, labeling them as “fake news” and “enemies of the people,” were a direct threat to our democratic values.

Locally, we’ve seen our own struggles with press freedom, from the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia to the ongoing battles against SLAPP lawsuits. Trump’s attacks on the press served as a chilling reminder of up for press freedom, even in the face of adversity.

4. Attacks on LGBTQ+ Rights: A Blow to Our Progress

Malta, with its progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights, was shocked by Trump’s administration’s rollback of protections for transgender individuals. This included the removal of non-discrimination protections in healthcare and the banning of transgender individuals from serving in the military.

Locally, we’ve made significant strides in LGBTQ+ rights, from the introduction of same-sex marriage in 2017 to the recent ban on ‘gay cure’ therapies. Trump’s attacks on LGBTQ+ rights served as a stark reminder of the ongoing battles for equality, even in our progressive corner of the world.

5. Attacks on Science and Evidence-Based Policymaking: A Danger to Us All

Malta, with its reliance on evidence-based policymaking, was alarmed by Trump’s administration’s repeated attacks on science and scientists. This included the muzzling of government scientists, the suppression of scientific research, and the dismissal of expert advice, most notably during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Locally, we’ve seen the importance of evidence-based policymaking in our response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Trump’s attacks on science served as a stark warning of the dangers of ignoring expert advice, even as we grappled with our own public health crisis.

One Reason for Hope: The Power of Resistance and Unity

Despite the darkness cast by the Trump regime, there is hope. Here in Malta, we’ve seen the power of resistance and unity, from the mass protests against austerity measures to the collective effort to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ve shown that, even in the face of adversity, we can come together to fight for a better future.

As the sun rises over the Grand Harbour, it’s a reminder that, even in the darkest times, there is always hope. We must continue to stand up for our values, to fight for justice, and to work together towards a brighter future. Because, after all, we’re all in this together.