Malta’s Role in Averting Venezuela’s ‘Larger Human Tragedy’

Malta’s Role in the Global Response to Venezuela’s Quake Crisis

Imagine, if you will, the bustling streets of Valletta, our capital city, where life goes on as usual. Now, picture the stark contrast: the chaos and destruction unfolding in Venezuela, following a series of devastating earthquakes. This is the reality that the United Nations (UN) is warning about, as they urge the world to act swiftly to prevent a ‘larger human tragedy’.

Understanding the Crisis

The quakes, with magnitudes ranging up to 6.5, have left hundreds dead, thousands injured, and over 100,000 people homeless. They’ve struck in the early hours, when people are most vulnerable, and hit areas already struggling with poverty and political instability. The UN estimates that 650,000 people are in need of immediate humanitarian assistance.

In Malta, we’ve seen our fair share of natural disasters, like the 2017 storms that caused widespread flooding and damage. But we’ve also seen the power of community and international support in times of crisis. This is what’s needed now in Venezuela.

Malta’s Response: More Than Just Aid

Malta, as a member of the European Union (EU), has a role to play in the global response. Our government has pledged €100,000 in aid, a drop in the ocean compared to the estimated €110 million needed, but a start nonetheless. Our Red Cross has also launched an appeal, with funds going directly to support those affected.

But our response can’t stop at aid. As a Mediterranean country, we understand the complexities of migration and the refugee crisis. We’ve seen firsthand how natural disasters can exacerbate these issues. So, our response must also consider the potential influx of Venezuelan refugees seeking safety and stability.

Locally, we can learn from initiatives like the ‘Adopt a Family’ project by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector. It connected volunteers with families affected by the 2017 storms, providing immediate support and long-term assistance. This kind of community engagement could be replicated to support Venezuelan families resettling in Malta.

: Prevention and Preparedness

The UN’s call to action isn’t just about immediate relief. It’s also about prevention and preparedness. As a small island nation, we know prepared for the worst. We can share our expertise in disaster risk reduction with Venezuela, helping them build resilience and reduce future losses.

Dr. Maria del Carmen Bono, a Maltese-Venezuelan academic based in Msida, puts it best: “We can’t prevent earthquakes, but we can prevent them from becoming catastrophes. That’s where international support comes in.”