Why the Election Feels Unreal: A Maltese Perspective

As I walked down Republic Street yesterday, I couldn’t help but notice the stark contrast between the bustling tourists and the eerily quiet political offices. The election is just around the corner, yet the atmosphere in Malta’s capital feels oddly detached, almost… unreal.

An Election Like No Other

Malta is no stranger to elections. We’ve seen our fair share of political drama, but this time, something feels different. Perhaps it’s the pandemic’s shadow looming large, or maybe it’s the sheer volume of information (and misinformation) circulating online. Whatever it is, it’s left many Maltese feeling disconnected from the political process.

Take the traditional election rallies, for instance. They’re a staple of Maltese politics, drawing thousands to hear party leaders outline their vision for the country. This year, they’re a distant memory, replaced by virtual events and socially distanced press conferences. It’s a far cry from the lively debates and impassioned speeches that usually fill the air this time of year.

Politics in the Age of Social Media

In the digital age, political campaigns are fought as much online as they are on the streets. But this election feels like it’s being waged almost entirely on social media. Facebook posts, Twitter threads, and Instagram stories have become the primary battleground, leaving many feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to believe.

the sheer volume of information (and misinformation) circulating online has made it difficult for voters to separate fact from fiction. According to a recent survey by the University of Malta, nearly 60% of Maltese adults are concerned about fake news during this election period. It’s no wonder that many feel disengaged and disillusioned.

Finding Reality in the Real World

So, how can we cut through the noise and find some reality in this surreal election season? For starters, we could look to the local community initiatives that have sprung up in response to the pandemic. From mutual aid groups to community fridges, these grassroots efforts offer a tangible reminder of what’s important to us as a society.

We could also take a leaf out of the book of the many Maltese who’ve been using this time to engage with their local councils. From attending virtual meetings to submitting proposals, they’re finding ways to make their voices heard, even in the midst of a pandemic.

And let’s not forget the power of a good old-fashioned conversation. Whether it’s chatting to your neighbours over the garden wall or catching up with friends at a safe distance, talking to people face-to-face can help cut through the noise and remind us of what really matters.

As for me, I’ll be spending the next few weeks trying to separate fact from fiction, listening to as many voices as I can, and reminding myself that, despite the surreal atmosphere, this election is real. It’s our chance to shape the future of our country, and it’s too important to be ignored.

So, let’s roll up our sleeves, engage with our community, and make our voices heard. Because, despite the strangeness of it all, this election is very, very real.