This Q&A with NWAMI International Malta’s President Maria-Gabriele Doublesin, conducted prior to her departure to Norway to attend the 2023 Oslo Freedom Forum, informs the reader of the organization’s mission to foster greater understanding and cooperation among like-minded individuals.
Q: What does NWAMI in NWAMI International Malta stand for?
A: NWAMI stands for networking for world awareness of multicultural integration.
Q: Why is it important?
A: Networking for world awareness of multicultural integration is critical because it helps to promote diversity and understanding among different cultures across the globe. By networking with people from different backgrounds and cultures, we can learn about their traditions, beliefs, and customs, which can broaden our perspective and increase our appreciation for diversity.
Furthermore, networking can help to break down cultural barriers and foster mutual respect and cooperation among people from different parts of the world. This can be especially important in today’s globalized society, where people from different cultures are often brought together for work, travel, and other activities.
In summary, networking for world awareness of multicultural integration is important because it helps to promote understanding, respect, and cooperation among people from different cultures and backgrounds.
Q: In simple terms, how would you explain what NWAMI International Malta is all about?
A: NWAMI International Malta is an organization that addresses multicultural integration issues and focuses on promoting cultural diversity, peace, and harmony within communities through culture & art community engagement initiatives, and community education. We strive to create a better world by encouraging people to embrace and celebrate their differences, while also promoting understanding, respect, and tolerance. We offer various programs and initiatives that aim to educate people on different cultures and traditions, as well as to promote intercultural communication and cooperation. Our goal is to create a more inclusive and accepting society where people from all walks of life can live together in harmony.
Q: What are multicultural integration issues? Can you give some examples?
A: Multicultural integration issues are challenges that arise when people from different cultures come together and interact with each other. These issues range from language barriers, differences in cultural norms and values, prejudice and discrimination, and social isolation. It can be difficult for people from different cultural backgrounds to communicate and understand each other, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts. However, with patience, understanding, and respect, multicultural integration can be achieved and can lead to a richer and more diverse society.
Q: Why is this relevant for Malta?
A: Malta is a unique melting pot of various cultures, and this makes it a fascinating place when looking at aspects pertaining to challenges and opportunities of multicultural integration. Some aspects that are specific to Malta include its history, geography, and language.
Malta’s location at the crossroads of the Mediterranean has meant that it has been influenced by a variety of different cultures over the centuries, from North Africa to Southern Europe. This has resulted in a diverse population, with many different languages and religions represented.
One interesting aspect of multicultural integration in Malta is the coexistence of different languages. Maltese is the official language, but English is also widely spoken, as well as Italian, Arabic, and other languages. This means that many Maltese people are multilingual, which can be both a challenge and an opportunity for integration.
Another unique aspect of multicultural integration in Malta is the country’s strong Catholic identity. Although Malta is a secular country, the Catholic Church plays an important role in Maltese culture and society. This can be both a source of strength and a source of tension when it comes to integrating people of different beliefs and values.
As we can see, multicultural integration in Malta is a complex and fascinating topic that requires a nuanced understanding of the country’s history, geography, and culture. Fostering multicultural integration in Malta is important for several reasons:
Firstly, Malta is a multicultural society, with people from different countries and cultures living and working together. Addressing multicultural integration helps to promote social cohesion, reduce social isolation, and create a more inclusive society where everyone feels valued and respected.
Secondly, addressing multicultural integration helps to promote economic growth and development. Businesses and industries can benefit from a diverse workforce, with people from different backgrounds bringing different skills, experiences, and perspectives to the table.
Q: NWAMI International Malta is an organisation that promotes cultural understanding, respect, and tolerance. What is the benefit of sending delegates to the Oslo Freedom Forum?
A: Addressing multicultural integration is also important from a human rights perspective. Everyone has the right to live free from discrimination and to enjoy their cultural and linguistic heritage. By promoting multicultural integration, NWAMI International Malta can help to ensure that everyone can thrive and succeed, regardless of the background.
Attending the Oslo Freedom Forum offers a great opportunity for NWAMI International Malta and us delegates to connect with other like-minded organizations and individuals who share our VO’s values of promoting cultural understanding, respect, and tolerance. It is also a chance for us to learn about new ideas and gain insights into the latest developments in human rights and freedom of expression from world-renowned speakers and experts in the field. Furthermore, attending the conference can help broaden our network and create new partnerships that can further our mission and impact.