It’s 3 AM in the heart of Valletta. The usually bustling Republic Street is now a ghost town, save for a lone figure huddled in a doorway. This is not an uncommon sight in Malta’s capital. It’s a stark reminder of a pressing issue often overlooked – the right to sleep.

Malta’s Hidden Homeless

Malta, with its Mediterranean charm and strong economy, often paints a picture of prosperity. Yet, scratch the surface, and you’ll find a hidden homeless population. According to the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector, around 700 people are sleeping rough on our islands. This number is likely higher, given the transient nature of homelessness.

Meet John, a 45-year-old Maltese man who’s been sleeping on the streets of Valletta for the past two years. “I lost my job, then my home,” he says, “Now, I’m just trying to survive.” John’s story is not unique. It’s a tale of economic hardship, mental health struggles, and a lack of affordable housing.

Right to Sleep: A Legal Grey Area

The right to sleep, or the right to adequate housing, is a fundamental human right recognized internationally. Yet, in Malta, it’s a legal grey area. The Rent Control Act protects tenants from arbitrary rent increases and evictions, but it doesn’t guarantee access to housing. the Public Health Act prohibits sleeping in public places, leaving homeless individuals in a Catch-22 situation.

In 2019, the European Court of Human Rights ruled in the case of M.M. v. Malta that the lack of adequate housing for asylum seekers violated their right to respect for private and family life. This ruling could set a precedent for homeless Maltese citizens, but it’s yet to be fully enforced.

Local Initiatives and the Way Forward

While the government has been criticized for its slow response, local NGOs and initiatives are stepping up. St. Martin’s Institute in Valletta provides a safe space for homeless individuals during the day, while Flos Carmeli offers temporary accommodation and support services. The Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector is advocating for a more coordinated approach to tackle homelessness.

But more needs to be done. Affordable housing is crucial, as is mental health support and job training. The government has pledged to invest in social housing, but progress has been slow. Meanwhile, the homeless population continues to grow.

As John puts it, “It’s not just about a bed to sleep in. It’s about dignity, about feeling like you’re part of society again.”