Marika Fsadni and Dr Maria Pisani, National Commission for the Promotion of Equality, I am not racist but… Immigrant and Ethnic Minority Groups and Housing in Malta, 2012
Country
Malta
Title
Year
Type of publication
Geographical coverage
National
Area/location of interest
Type of Institution
National human rights body
Institution
Main Thematic Focus
Discrimination Racism & xenophobia Public perceptions & attitudes
Target Population
People of African descent & Black Europeans
Key findings
The study aims to develop a real understanding of the situation of immigrants's accomodation in Malta but also to measure the perception, the level of awarareness and acceptance of racial equality and diversity. The key findings may be summarised as the folowing:
- the study mentions numerous illustrations of direct and indirect discrimination. "Black", African, "Arab", "Muslim" as refered by the population, face disproportionate levels of discrimination in accessing housing.
- the widespread racism grounded in stereotypical beliefs have a direct impact on migrants and the experience of housing discrimination.
- a racist discourse and practices are normalised which leads to a culture of impunity.
- real estate agents play a central role in producing and sustaining housing discrimination in Malta.
- there is a fear of renting/subletting to African nationals or Arabs by property owners since the presence of certain ethnics minorities in neighborhoods is perceived as lowering property prices.
- migrants are usually not aware of their rights or ways to seek remedies. They mainly lack of trust in the authorities.
Methodology (Qualitative/Quantitative and exact type used, questionnaires etc)
Recent international and national litterature as well as official international and national surveys related to the topic were reviewed. Personal interviews with keys stakeholders, property owners, developers or real estate agents and migrants living in Malta were held. Situation testing exercices were conducted with migrants targeting property owners via telephone or email.
Sample details and representativeness
Personal interviews were conducted with 5 key stakeholders, 30 property owners or real estate agents and with 50 migrants living in Malta. 30 testing exercices were conducted.