Maltese Group ‘ERBA’ Land Deal With Warner Music Norway

Mar 8 2024

ERBA’, a rising girl group consisting of Kelsey, Maria, Anthea, and Demi, celebrates International Women’s Day by releasing their debut single “Sirena” on March 8th.

Formed during the Malta Music Exchange Camp, organized by the Public Broadcasting Service, ERBA’ collaborated with top songwriters and producers like Audun Agnar Guldbrandsen, Tom Hugo, and Alexander Nyborg Olsson. “Sirena,” co-written by ERBA’ and their vocal coach Maria Cachia Abdilla, gained attention during the Malta Eurovision Song Contest, reaching the finals and ranking 4th overall.

The song’s Mediterranean vibe celebrates female empowerment, inspired by the mermaid stereotype deeply rooted in Malta’s identity.

ERBA’ produced a music video for “Sirena” in collaboration with Matthew Muscat Drago and Victor Abela, receiving positive feedback.

Distributed by Warner Music Norway, the song finds a home in the international music scene. With their emergence, ERBA’ is establishing themselves as promising artists. “Sirena” transcends as more than just a song; it’s a testament to empowerment and resilience. With its captivating melody and empowering message, “Sirena” is poised to become the anthem of 2024, resonating globally.

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Why We Celebrate Women’s Day in the 21st Century

Mar 8 2024

In the 21st century, Women’s Day serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality across the globe. It’s more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a rallying cry for change, a celebration of progress, and a call to action for a more inclusive society.

Equality Matters:

Women’s Day underscores the importance of gender equality in every aspect of life. From the boardroom to the classroom, from the courtroom to the living room, the fight for equality remains steadfast.

Empowerment Agenda:

It serves as a powerful reminder to empower women economically, socially, and politically. By investing in women’s education, economic opportunities, and leadership roles, we pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future.

Historical Tribute:

Women’s Day pays homage to the trailblazers who paved the way for gender equality in the past. From suffragettes to civil rights activists, their tireless efforts laid the groundwork for progress.

Embracing Intersectionality:

Recognizing the intersectionality of women’s experiences is crucial. Women’s Day acknowledges that gender equality is not one-size-fits-all and that factors such as race, ethnicity, sexuality, and socio-economic status shape women’s experiences differently.

Inspiring Role Models:

It celebrates the achievements of women who break barriers and challenge stereotypes. From astronauts to athletes, from CEOs to activists, these women inspire us to reach for the stars and shatter glass ceilings.

Community Building:

Women’s Day provides a platform for women to come together, share experiences, and support each other. Through solidarity and sisterhood, we amplify our voices and effect change.

Global Solidarity:

Women’s Day unites women worldwide in the pursuit of a more just and inclusive society. Across continents and cultures, women stand in solidarity, demanding equality and justice for all.

Future Focus:

As we celebrate how far we’ve come, Women’s Day reminds us of the work still to be done. It’s a clarion call for action, a beacon of hope for a future where gender equality is not just a dream but a reality.

In essence, Women’s Day in the 21st century is a testament to the resilience, strength, and power of women everywhere. It’s a day to celebrate progress, honor the past, and envision a future where equality reigns supreme. Let us continue to march forward, hand in hand, until every woman and girl can live with dignity, respect, and opportunity.

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Gozo Minister Supports Hunting/Trapping With Pin At EU Court

Mar 8 2024

Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri openly supports hunting and trapping amid Malta’s confrontation with the European Court of Justice over finch trapping.

The Maltese government defends its actions, asserting trapping’s scientific purpose while critiquing the European Commission’s procedural approach. Despite admitting hindrances to scientific objectives due to NGO boycotts, it contests BirdLife Malta’s claim of trapping over 50,000 finches per season.

Facing infringement proceedings for permitting trapping between 2020 and 2023, Malta argues procedural irregularities at the ECJ, emphasizing its commitment to the Birds Directive while upholding research derogation.

Trapping, halted upon EU accession, resumed under a ‘scientific’ guise. The government rebuffs comparisons to Japanese whaling, insisting on a nuanced understanding of research derogation.

Camilleri, present at the hearing, awaits Advocate-General Tamara Capeta’s opinion due on May 30th. Malta stands firm on defending its research derogation for seven species of wild finches, while emphasizing attempts at amicable resolution with the Commission.

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Exhibition At European Parliament Celebrating Maltese Festa

Mar 8 2024

The Minister for National Heritage, the Arts, and Local Government Owen Bonnici, along with Member of the European Parliament Alex Agius Saliba, inaugurated an exhibition in Brussels celebrating Maltese ‘festas’.

This follows UNESCO’s official recognition of the Maltese festivity as Intangible Cultural Heritage.

During his address, Minister Owen Bonnici highlighted the participation of 14 societies associated with the Maltese festivity in the exhibition, emphasizing its integral role in the country’s cultural tapestry.

“Each locality in Malta and Gozo commemorates its patron saint’s feast with both internal and external celebrations, including fireworks, traditional bands, processions with titular statues, and numerous other traditions that form part of our festivity.

This heritage is passed down from our ancestors, representing generations of dedication to promoting this cultural expression not only within our islands but also beyond,” Minister Bonnici remarked.

He also underscored the significance of holding the exhibition in the European Parliament, a prestigious institution, acknowledging the contributions of passionate volunteers. Minister Bonnici concluded by expressing gratitude for the collaboration with MEP Alex Agius Saliba in showcasing the beauty of Maltese festa to the wider audience of the Parliament.

In his remarks, MEP Alex Agius Saliba noted that the exhibition in the European Parliament highlights the work of Maltese artists during the festivity, which is deeply rooted in the nation’s traditions and identity.

“It’s rewarding to present our country’s offerings in this esteemed European democratic institution.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers whose dedicated efforts throughout the year promote our festivals and the charm of our towns and villages,” added MEP Alex Agius Saliba.

The exhibition features banners showcasing emblems and portraits from Maltese folklore and history, including the iconic Maltese Cross and elements from the Order of the Knights, alongside other culturally significant artefacts.

Additionally, two screens display moments captured during the Maltese festivity, providing visitors with an immersive experience reminiscent of strolling through festively adorned villages or cities.

The exhibition, curated by Artistic Director Antoine Farrugia, runs from March 6th to March 11th, 2024, at the European Parliament in Brussels.

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