Three voluntary organizations condemn

“deliberate and gratuitous violence” against asylum seekers

The Third World Group, Koperattiva Kummerċ Ġust and Kopin strongly condemn what Amnesty International has described as the “deliberate and gratuitous violence” by some members of the Armed Forces to break up a peaceful protest organised by asylum seekers at the Ħal Safi detention centre on the morning of Thursday, 13 January,2005. Such deplorable acts are in clear violation of international treaties and standards ratified by Malta, as well as domestic law.

The persons responsible for these human rights violations should be brought to justice and the victims appropriately compensated. The Third World Group, Koperattiva Kummerċ Ġust and Kopin urge the government to ensure transparency in the inquiry ordered by the Prime Minister and the immediate publication of its report.

The three organizations also express their concern about the government policy of prolonged detention in centres where conditions are well below international standards. If the armed forces are entrusted with responsibility for the running of the detention centres they should be provided with the necessary training and resources.

The organizations also call on both the government and civil society to engage in positive action to eradicate racism and promote cultural diversity.

Unfortunately, these shameful acts of violence contrast sharply with the recent solidarity shown by the Maltese public towards suffering people in South East Asia.

Vince Caruana (Koperattiva Kummerċ Ġust)

Michael Gatt (Kopin)