Church Commission says human dignity has no passport

The Interdiocesan Commission for the Promotion of Integral Human Development expressed concern regarding measures in the 2027 Budget targeting third-country nationals. The Commission stated these measures undermine solidarity, human dignity, and social cohesion.

Mark Cachia, chairperson of the Commission, said the decision to impose additional financial burdens on non-EU workers while restricting access to services like free public transport and childcare is problematic. He noted that people should not be treated merely as units of labor to be recruited or discarded for political convenience, but as human beings with families and rights. The Commission specifically warned that childcare restrictions could prevent families from building stable lives in Malta.

The Commission argued that the measures do not address structural challenges such as traffic congestion, overcrowding, or pressure on public infrastructure. Instead, the Commission said the policies penalize individuals who already contribute to the Maltese economy through taxes and social security payments, including many with low incomes. The Commission warned that the need to manage population pressure should not result in discriminatory burdens on people who cannot vote.