The experience of foreign inmates within the Maltese prison and criminal justice system

Abstract

Since Malta’s accession to the EU, there has been an increase of foreigners entering Malta. These foreigners can be classified as tourists (those coming for vacation and leaving the island after a specified time) and migrants (those who opt to move to Malta). Having such an increase in the population can lead to a myriad of pros and cons. Amongst the cons, one of the most national and social pressing issues is the increase in crime committed by foreigners and thus resulting in the increase of foreign inmates at Malta’s prison: Corradino Correctional Facility (CCF). Hand in hand with the increase of foreign nationals comes the need for integration and better policies being set so as to educate both foreign and local nationals. Although integration is the key in adjusting to a multicultural nation, this is constantly being threatened by locals not accepting change and foreigners whose only scope of choosing Malta is crime related. Eg. drug and money smuggling. In light of this, this research qualitatively explores the experience of ten inmates and their entanglement with the Maltese Criminal Justice System followed by their stay at CCF. The narratives include factors from their past life history prior coming to Malta, the reason behind coming to Malta, their crime involvement, any factors leading to arrest by the different Maltese officials and the process through the Maltese Criminal Justice and imprisonment experience. It further delves into the treatment received at CCF both when held on remand or as a sentenced prisoner. Consequently, the participants were asked to share any recommendations they deem necessary for the treatment of foreign inmates. This research adopts an inductive approach which helps the ten participants to follow the interview yet at the same time placing all importance on the subjective experience and point of view of every individual. The research further highlights the intersectionality and heterogeneity with the foreign inmate population whilst giving voice and pinpointing the multidimensional realities and personal experiences. This research has identified various differences in relation to the treatment and struggles perceived by foreign inmates. When it comes to the difference in treatment, this is enhanced by whether one is an EU National or not. Furthermore, it has also highlighted the factor that skin colour plays an important role in the treatment and segregation of people both still under custody and those under remand or sentenced. Moreover, another salient finding is that; in the female section there is no segregation between drug addicts and non-drug addicts. This is creating an issue for the foreign female inmate population who are generally imprisoned for drug trafficking and petty thefts. Most foreigners make good use of the education program currently set at CCF and this helps to further their knowledge so as to better themselves and in the end are better prepared for the future. In addition, having work has proven to be beneficial for the inmates as this serves as an alienation, time passes more quickly and also creates a source of income. This source of income plays an important role for foreigners who usually have no visitations and family that could help them financially.