Malta to Subsidize Flights for Voters Abroad in June Elections

The Maltese government has announced that it will offer subsidized flights to Maltese voters living abroad to enable them to vote in the upcoming European Parliament and local council elections on June 8. The newly established national airline, KM Malta, will provide flights at a reduced rate on its scheduled services, with the government covering the cost of the subsidies.

This policy has been in place for several years, with the previous national carrier, Air Malta, offering eligible voters return tickets for €90. The government spent €1.9 million on these subsidies in past elections. Critics have called the system "archaic and wasteful of public funds," but the government has maintained it until a better solution can be found.

Maltese citizens living abroad have repeatedly appealed for more convenient voting options, such as proxy voting, postal voting, or overseas ballot boxes, which are available in other countries. However, the government has not yet implemented any of these alternative methods.

Why this matters: The subsidized flights demonstrate the Maltese government's commitment to ensuring all eligible citizens can exercise their right to vote, regardless of their location. However, the cost and logistics of this system have raised questions about its long-term sustainability and the need for more efficient voting methods for Maltese citizens abroad.

A government spokesperson stated, "We believe that every Maltese citizen should have the opportunity to participate in our democratic process. Until we can implement a more permanent solution, subsidizing flights is the best way to ensure that our citizens living abroad can make their voices heard." The opposition has criticized the government for not finding a more cost-effective and convenient alternative, arguing that the current system places an undue burden on both the taxpayers and the voters who must travel to Malta to cast their ballots.

Key Takeaways

• Malta offers subsidized flights for overseas voters to participate in elections.
• The government spent €1.9 million on these subsidies in past elections.
• Critics call the system "archaic and wasteful of public funds".
• Maltese citizens want more convenient voting options like proxy or postal voting.
• The government defends the subsidies as the best way to ensure citizen participation.