Bridge by bridge

I have often written about the troubles that tribalism brings with it, but now I would like to elaborate on my vision for the alternative.

First of all, tribalism goes beyond the way one votes in the elections. Elections are a simple way of measuring what people are thinking and feeling. It is one reason why one should look beyond opinion polls when considering what should be on the agenda. Tribalism is not just a voting habit, it is the way in which we treat our neighbours, perceive different segments of society and of course, it has a lot to do with how we identify ourselves.

Depending on which of the political parties one supports in Malta, it comes with a package of expectations. Nationalists interpret Maltese history in one way and Labourites interpret it another way. When we have two accounts of events which contradict each other so completely, it becomes a moral duty to try to find out why this division exists. Neither interpretation can possibly be considered to be an objective account of reality if it is so divisive and therefore self-destructive.

I entered politics to try to bridge the partisan divide, and found in Partit Demokratiku a bridge where Nationalists and Labourites can work together. However, I allowed myself to fall into a trap. I slipped into the mindset that because both major parties had gotten aspects of reality wrong, then I could dismiss and condemn them both completely.

Actually, the reality is that even this administration, which I do condemn as corrupt, has of course done good as well as bad. I also now find myself in rare agreement with Adrian Delia over gender quotas; that they are not the right way for- ward. Without acknowledging our similarities as well as differences, then even the third party risks being tribal.

Having said that, it is precisely the ability of the third party to act as the bridge between worldviews which makes it such a priceless aspect of Maltese democracy. We create a new synthesis through our engagement. However, it is our responsibility to acknowledge the good as well as the bad and incorporate the positive elements of both the Nationalist Party and the Labour Party as well as offering something new. It is for that reason that I have paid tribute to George Borg Olivier and Pawlu Boffa at the same time.

To overcome tribalism we need to break down arbitrary prejudices which divide us and distract us from actual policy. We need to look for the best in our neighbour and work for a bigger picture. One might assume it is easier said than done, but in an election one always has the power to express oneself fully, privately and profoundly. Dare to reach out to your fellow citizens in the middle ground, bringing with you all the good, and leaving behind the bad.