Martina Mizzi, B.Sc. Biology and Chemistry, second year.
From the monetary point of view, the single currency is definitely a positive factor which eases trading between countries and also makes travelling easier. This has attracted more local entrepreneurs to invest outside Malta.
Moreover, European businesses have invested heavily in Malta, with the benefit of more jobs being created, subsequently reducing the rate of local unemployment.
This has definitely provided both financial market stability, and also a political point of reference.
Being a member of the EU allows Maltese citizens freedom of movement with a wide range of opportunities in the employment, environment and the education sector.
However, EU citizenship might challenge the symbol of national identity. Due to big businesses taking over the market, smaller businesses might suffer the consequences.
Also, laws adopted for large systems might not be suitable for all organisations in the EU.
This might lead to loss in sovereignty, as power is passed onto the EU.
Romina Tolu, B.Communications and Psychology, first year, and communications officer for LGBT organisation, We Are.
Off the top of my head I can think of more advantages than disadvantages. The first major one is that we have entered the eurozone. I have got so used to travelling carrying only euros, that on a recent trip to Scotland it was only when I got there that I realised I was going to need to change my money.
Another advantage is being within the Schengen zone, which makes it much easier to move around and get to places.
By being in the EU, I know it is more likely that my rights will be protected by my country’s laws and legislatures, as the EU should keep Malta in check and make sure we reach set standards.
Of course, this isn’t always the case; one simple example is that our criminal law does not refer to discrimination on basis of sexual orientation as being hate speech or crime. Therefore, in cases of homophobic or transphobic offence, the reason behind the act (homophobia) is not taken into consideration as an aggravating factor of the offence.
Julian Caruana, LLB, second year.
There are many advantages to being a citizen of an EU member state. Since I am a student who enjoys going abroad, I will highlight those advantages that I come to contact with most and which affect me directly.
First is ease of access to other countries with the elimination of visas and passport control.
Having the same currency as most European countries also facilitates matters.
The monetary aid we receive is also beneficial to the country in many ways as it supposedly helps in developing infra-structure, healthcare and the educational system. Being part of such a large organisation of states gives Malta a greater chance to have its voice heard than if it were still excluded from this group.
Like many, I fear the growing tendency of federalism in the EU may eventually lead to a situation which would result in a loss of autonomy and sovereignty of the countries that it is made up of.
One can only wait and see. I believe there must be a balance of power so that both the country and the EU can continue to develop sufficiently.