Malta's foreign policy has evolved since 1964 : has EU membership influenced Malta's more recent foreign policy?

Abstract

In this essay I shall briefly review the development of Malta's foreign policy from the inception of Malta as an independent nation in 1964 through the years until Malta became a member of the European Union in 2004. The stages of Malta's foreign policy development are related also to Constitutional development. Malta undertook to train an inexperienced diplomatic corps that achieved significant results in international fora. In the early 90s the establishment of the Mediterranean Academy of Diplomatic Studies ensured that Malta's diplomatic corps became fully professional. The training enhanced the integrity of Malta's Ambassadors and diplomatic officers. Membership in the European Union and its fora signified a new approach to foreign policy, although Malta retained sovereignty as a state. The Arab Spring crisis revealed what may be called 'cracks' in the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) since member states did not agree on intervention in Libya. Malta adroitly handled the crisis by offering logistical and humanitarian assistance while reiterating its commitment to work for peace in the region. Malta supported the EU's decision to impose sanctions on Russia in light of the crisis in Ukraine and offered political and moral support to the coalition against the Islamic State, condemning the atrocities committed by the latter. Malta was one of the first countries to back Palestinian statehood in the United Nations and in the European Union. These foreign policy decisions demonstrate the Maltese Government's skill in developing its individual foreign policy goals while cultivating the respect of its partners through its diplomatic efforts and adapting to the EU's CFSP. In light of the current scenario, where the enemy is not another sovereign state but a strong terrorist force, can Malta continue to avoid 'taking sides'? Can Malta continue to rely on diplomacy and dialogue in light of the unrestrained violence of terrorism? These, and other, questions will haunt future Maltese governments and, possibly, compromise Malta's international reputation as a bridge of peace if Malta fails to convince its international partners that it is a genuine interlocutor. As the Honourable Dr. George Vella, Minister of Foreign Affairs said on a number of occasions, “Malta cannot be neutral in the confrontation with terrorism.” How far is Malta prepared to go in the confrontation with the 21st century's military threat – terrorism? These are the questions I posed during my research. My conclusions are drawn from literary review and research, as well as comparisons of opinions revealed in media interviews with leading Maltese foreign policy experts.