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Traditionally the election of a Republican or a Democrat President does little in the way of moulding Maltese politics. But not this time round in the economic, social and cultural fields.
Global instability and today’s prevailing current world disorder has led to a feeling of great unease in the world economies, fuelled by a US foreign policy that has resulted in increased tension in the Middle East and a very unstable Iraq.
There is the perception that the US does not understand world affairs and, worse still, wishes to serves as its policeman.
It definitely has to be said that although there have been many occasions in which the US has injected new life into many parts of the world, there are innumerable instances where US policy has led to unnecessary economic strife. The George W. Bush presidential era has led to a grave misunderstanding of the United States and its people.
A downfall in economic wellbeing in the US, coupled by a large unemployment problem, has also impinged on the economic growth in Europe. But then again, Europe hasn’t done itself any favours by stalling in terms of opening up to new work practices.
There is much to learn from the US economic model, and there is much to discard.
In so many ways we are mesmerised by the happenings in the US. The country’s domination of the media has led to us involving ourselves in the tribulations of the American way of life, whether it is Enron, Microsoft or the words of wisdom from Alan Greenspan.
The election of a US president is anything but remotely related to what happens in the rest of the world. That is why the results of yesterday’s voting are so anxiously awaited.
Government’s proposal to turn the dilapidated ruin of an opera house into a House of Parliament has not been met with much support and, given the country’s current financial situation, it is no wonder. If funds are available to rebuild the former opera house, it would make far more sense to construct a cultural venue on the site.
Culture receives scant attention from the government and building a theatre at the entrance to our capital city could be just the kind of tonic needed to encourage people to get involved in the arts.
The centre could become a veritable hub of cultural activity aimed at promoting both popular and more sophisticated art, drama, music and opera.
Rather than considering a new site for Parliament, finances permitting, a well-funded cultural house could do much to enhance Malta’s standing and would prove to be a much greater attraction for tourists.
The present House of Parliament should be moved from the palace when finances permit and priority should be given to free up Palace Square in front of the House of Parliament, which could be turned into a huge square with cafes alongside for the public to enjoy.
Freedom Square at the entrance to Valletta should, similarly, be turned into a cultural and commercial area. |
