Maltese neutrality and the challenge of EU defence and security cooperation

Abstract

Malta’s strategic position at the centre of the Mediterranean has often made the island an attractive base for various powers dominating the area. From the Phoenicians to the Romans to the French, regional powers have sought to dominate Malta and lay claim to its natural harbours. The last foreign power to hold sway over Malta, the UK, stayed from 1800 to 1964, during which time the island’s status as a military base was clearly seen during the Second World War. Indeed, it became one of the most bombed places in the world, with more bombs falling on the island in 2 months than would fall on London throughout the entire Blitz. However, following independence, the history of military occupation has been replaced with a commitment towards neutrality from a country that sees itself as a bridge across the Mediterranean, not as a frontline state, very much within the ‘green’ zone of threat perception. With greater security and defence cooperation, the EU is entering waters that the Maltese will find difficult to navigate.