Bits & pieces

Article by: Nikita Alamango

Divorce

The 16th of March 2011 also proved to be an historic day when our parliament witnessed an unusual division that saw two government MPs vote in favour of a motion presented by the Opposition. Regardless of the content, which I will address soon, it showed progress in moving beyond party lines.

I have respect for both Hon. Jeffery Pullicino Orlando and Hon. Jesmond Mugliett, together with MPs from the Opposition side (some of whom may not agree with the introduction of divorce yet still voted in favour of a referendum) because they did not opt to sit in their comfort zone and say “NO” for their respective reasons and instead decided to allow the people to decide for themselves.

The vote in parliament represents a step forward for Malta, a step to truly becoming a European country. When the referendum on EU membership was held I was only 14 and obviously vote-less, however, I really believed that accession to Europe would provide a better course for our country. The modernising of Malta does not start, and definitely does not stop on paper. Entering the EU does not only mean becoming a member of a political or economical establishment but it means that our country will widen our social fabric to accept and tolerate social and cultural changes which include civil liberties like divorce.

It’s not about copying others or being the odd ones out: if it’s something wrong we shouldn’t go for it just for the sake of being like others. However, the introduction of a divorce law can be the only light of hope at the end of the tunnel for many couples and families. Even if it was just for one couple, I would say the same and insist on its introduction. Minority rights are not there for the public or common good of society. For instance, with all respect, we do not reserve disabled parking spaces because it’s for the common good but because we respect, tolerate and believe that we should try and ease certain situations for people with special needs. Therefore, we do everything in our power to make it happen.

I hope that this debate will trigger our society’s good will and generate the compassion our population is known for – this time towards each other.