Malta

Last update: October, 2026

Since joining the European Union in 2004, and following a series of financial and social reforms, Malta’s resulting growing economic attractiveness has contributed to a significant increase in migration, leading to a more multicultural society. The population grew from 422,509 in 2013 to 550,693 by 2026.

Close to 50 different nationalities are represented in Maltese society, with a wide variety of South American, African and Southeast Asian citizens.

Malta has no legally recognised ethnic, linguistic or religious minorities. However, the rapidly

growing migrant communities and mixed-heritage Maltese are minorities in effect. As noted by Damian Spiteri, with foreign nationals making up 22.2% of the population in 2025, policy plays a crucial role in supporting positive integration in the long-term.

As highlighted by Gellel, Arvanitidou and Rossi in an article for the project ‘Living Together: Towards Understanding Each Other’s Culture’, carried out by the University of Malta, “the increase in the population of foreigners residing in Malta has multiple implications, particularly with regard to the social composition of the community and possibly its effect on social cohesion”.

The State of the Nation survey*, reporting on aspects reflecting the national situation, also noted that between 2022 and 2026 one witnessed a steady decline in positive responses to the question 'Are you comfortable with the mix of cultures in our society?’ The sustained influx of foreign nationals, both from Europe as well as Third Country Nationals, may contribute to a general sense of unease with growing multiculturalism. Young people aged between 26-35 are the most comfortable cohort with the mix of cultures in Maltese society, although there have been no significant shifts in perception.

Earlier, according to the 2020 Eurobarometer report, 62% of respondents stated that the main issue facing Malta was migration, followed by environment, climate and energy issues (37%), and rising prices and inflation (19%). The lMigrant Integration Policy Index (MIPEX 2025 and 2020) https://mipex.eu/#:~:text=The Migrant Integration Policy Index %28MIPEX%29 is a,integration of migrants in all the countries analysed.reports that the public in Malta has fewer positive attitudes towards immigrants than on average in other European countries.

After a significant improvement in Malta’s integration policies (+5 points) between 2014 and 2019, progress has since stagnated. The country’s halfway favourable approach to integration is reflected in its consistent overall score of 48 on the 100-point MIPEX scale. The score is largely consistent across policy areas ranging from slightly unfavorable to halfway favorable.

Since 2023, Malta has been working on a new integration strategy to replace the first one, which was in effect from 2018 to 2023. In early 2025 Malta launched its second National Integration Strategy and Action Plan (2025–2030), following extensive public consultation in 2023 and building on its 2018–2023 predecessor. The strategy targets all migrants, including third-country nationals, beneficiaries of international protection, and future generations, with measures tailored by gender, age, sexuality, ability, employment status, and family situation. Key reforms include mandatory pre-departure orientation, faster access to services through legal amendments, expansion of the I Belong programme, and the introduction of digital integration tools.

Labour migration reforms initiated in 2025 aim to balance economic needs with worker protections, while broader efforts seek to professionalise integration through upgraded service delivery mechanisms. However, despite ambitious policies and wide consultation, restrictive nationality rules remain a significant barrier to long-term inclusion.

The National Cultural Policy 2021 (NCP 2021) emphasises the principle of the right to culture, stating that culture is "a dynamic force that can help negotiate integration and fight exclusion by engendering wellbeing for strong communities and a resilient cohesive society." NCP 2021 acknowledges the influence of the UNESCO Declaration on Cultural Diversity and the Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions. NCP 2021 aims to develop more meaningful links between the creative economy and the cultural diversity within Maltese society.

There have been a number of further, recent developments. These include:

The Malta Crafts Foundation took part in the ‘NEXT – Young NEETs shaping EXpectations for the future of Europe’ project. Discussions with the active participation of youths from across the partner countries, namely Bulgaria, Cyprus, Germany, Italy, Latvia, Poland, Portugal, and Malta focused on prejudice and stereotypes, pointing out how unaware we often are of the existence of certain biases we may have formed. The project is co-funded by the EU through the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme.

Earlier ,Valletta's designation as the 2018 European Capital of Culture (ECoC) aimed to enhance community engagement in cultural development, drawing inspiration from the Baukultur concept in the 2018 Davos Declaration.  

From the field of international cultural cooperation, Malta’s participation in, and hosting of, a number of networks and meetings, has contributed to implementing policy aimed at fostering a positive context for cultural diversity. Among these are the Cultural Routes as recognised by the Council of Europe. In 2023 Malta joined the Enlarged Partial Agreement and in 2025 closed its presidency of the Council of Europe by hosting sixteen routes at its final policy event.

The first Council of Europe cultural route to be established in Malta, the Phoenicians’ Route, fosters intercultural dialogue in the Mediterranean through tourism, focusing on intangible heritage. It highlights the educational and social aspects of the Route, in Malta, as from 2017. The Route in Malta has collaborated with the Malta Mediterranean Literature Festival organized by Inizjamed, a cultural association dedicated to literature established in the early 2000s, connecting historical intercultural dialogue with contemporary cultural, artistic, and social needs. The same collaboration led to several Creative Europe, Erasmus and other projects focusing on cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue.

The collaboration has extended to the Local Councils Association, representing all localities in Malta and Gozo, the University of Malta and Heritage Malta, to highlight and initiate best practices and future recommendations for intercultural dialogue, European collaboration, and innovation in cultural and tourism activities in Malta.

The other cultural routes present in Malta are the European Route of Ceramics, the Historic Cafés Route, the Saint James Way, the European Route of Megalithic Cultures and the European Route of Ceramics.

The year 2024 saw important developments regarding cultural and intercultural mediators in Malta. With regard to integration needs, the Human Rights Directorate addresses the integration needs that cultural mediators are addressing. Efforts highlight the importance of cultural mediators in helping migrants navigate challenges such as language barriers, socio-cultural differences, and discrimination. A Diploma in Education for Cultural Mediation has been established to train more individuals in this field.

The year 2025 saw Malta preside over the Council of Europe, addressing important elements in the diversity agenda through conferences, exchanges and joint projects.

Regarding healthcare, the Migrant Health Liaison Office has been training cultural mediators to assist in healthcare settings. These mediators help bridge communication gaps between migrants and healthcare providers, ensuring that cultural and linguistic barriers do not hinder access to medical services. The training program includes sessions, role plays, and assessments to prepare mediators for their roles.

Regarding campaigns, the Maltin Bħalek campaign is an online series by MaltaToday media group that features interviews with black and minority ethnic youths in Malta. The series sheds light on the experiences and challenges faced by these young individuals. The series includes interviews with various individuals from different walks of life, such as footballers, singers, nurses, student activists and call centre employees. It has been a powerful initiative that highlights the importance of diversity and the need for greater understanding and acceptance in society.

The Cultural Commission of the Church in Malta, led by the Delegate for Culture, focuses on fostering intercultural dialogue and integration through several key initiatives. These include:

• Interdisciplinary Practice: Collaborating across various fields to create a holistic approach to cultural engagement;
• Interfaith Dialogue: Promoting understanding and cooperation between different religious communities;
• International Reach: Building connections with cultural and religious organizations worldwide;
• Intercultural Exchange: Encouraging the sharing of cultural practices and traditions to enhance mutual understanding

When the Papal visit of Francis I to Malta in 2022, the Cultural Commission worked with civil society and media partners to facilitate programmes for intercultural and interfaith dialogue including cultural and artistic components.

These efforts are part of the Church's broader mission to engage with the cultural sector and promote a path to beauty within the local context.

Furthermore, there are several notable examples of interfaith expression and dialogue in Malta. These include:

• Interfaith Children's Dialogue: Organised by the Malta Foundation for the Wellbeing of Society, this initiative creates safe spaces for children and young people from different faiths to come together and discuss how their faith helps them become better people. This programme aims to nurture a culture of dialogue and promote an inclusive society;
• National Interfaith Declaration: In 2019, during World Interfaith Harmony Week, a meeting of all faith leaders in Malta led to the signing of the first national interfaith declaration. This event was organised by Her Excellency Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, the then President of Malta, to celebrate diversity and harmony between different religions and faith traditions.

* Marmarà, Vincent; Bondì, Lou. 2026, 2025, 2024. L-Istat tan-Nazzjon. Midsea Books

Last update: October, 2026

Malta has several national initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and inclusive education. These initiatives include:

• A Policy on Inclusive Education in Schools: This policy, revised in 2022, aims to ensure that all learners have access to quality education, intervention, and support. It emphasises a whole-school approach to create conducive learning environments for all stakeholders, promoting equity, inclusion, and a sense of belonging.
• National Education Strategy 2024-2030: This strategy focuses on inclusivity, diversity, and personalised learning. It aims to empower students, educators, and institutions to thrive in the 21st century by fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

Diversity education is primarily administered by educational policymaking bodies, particularly the Ministry for Education and Sports  (MEYR). This ministry is responsible for all publicly funded education in Malta. Given Malta's small size, the educational system is largely centralised, with no regional level of government.

However, there is a degree of decentralisation at the local level through the College system, which includes clusters of primary, middle, and senior schools managed by College Principals and the Council of Heads.

This structure allows for the development of projects and programs relevant to their school ethos, with the overall curriculum and funding are handled by central authorities. Diversity education is integrated into the general school curricula in Malta. The National Curriculum Framework (NCF) acknowledges and values Malta's cultural diversity, incorporating it into various subjects and learning outcomes.

This framework ensures that students learn about different cultures, histories, and traditions, promoting an inclusive and respectful environment. Additionally, the Policy on Inclusive Education in Schools emphasises a whole-school approach to creating inclusive learning environments. This policy encourages schools to develop practices that support diversity and equity, ensuring all students feel valued and included.

The main goals of diversity education programmes in Malta are multifaceted and aim to create an inclusive and equitable learning environment. The main objectives are to:

• Promote Tolerance and Respect: Encourage students to appreciate and respect differences in culture, religion, ethnicity, and other aspects of diversity;
• Foster Equality and Equity: Ensure that all students have equal access to educational opportunities and support, regardless of their background or abilities;
• Enhance Multilingualism: Support the learning of multiple languages to help students communicate effectively in a diverse society;
• Inform About World Cultures and Traditions: Educate students about various cultures, religions, and traditions to broaden their understanding and appreciation of global diversity;
• Promote Shared National Values and Identity: Strengthen a sense of national identity while recognising and celebrating the diverse backgrounds of all students.

Over the past few years there have been several initiatives by art and music schools in Malta that have aimed to introduce diverse artistic experiences and references into the general curriculum. Here are a few examples:

• Culture Pass: For several years this initiative by the Culture Directorate and Arts Council Malta (ACM) have encouraged schools to collaborate with artists on projects that integrate creative processes into the educational experience. It aims to expose students to various artistic disciplines and cultural perspectives, fostering creativity and appreciation for diverse artistic expressions;
• Arts in Schools Scheme: The Scheme forms part of the Council’s commitment to engage educators and creative practitioners in dialogue and collaboration. The aim is to encourage students and educators to engage with the creative and cultural sectors and to explore innovative pedagogical approaches for the application of the arts in schools. The scheme is also in line with ACM’s objective of advocating for a broader inclusion of creativity and the arts in education strengthening further 21st century education and skills.
• Diversity and Inclusion Projects: ACM supports projects that promote diversity and inclusion in the arts. These projects often involve showcasing the artistic works of local immigrant and national cultural minorities, providing students with a broader understanding of different cultural narratives and artistic traditions;
• Cultural and Creative Courses: Various courses offered by local art and music schools include modules on world cultures, contemporary art, and the contributions of cultural minorities. These courses aim to educate students about the rich tapestry of global artistic heritage and the importance of inclusivity in the arts.

There are several efforts in Malta to develop cultural citizenship through arts and cultural education. These initiatives aim to increase students' knowledge of human and cultural rights, citizens' rights and responsibilities, and understanding of different world religions and cultural influences. These include:

• Right to Culture Initiative: Led by Arts Council Malta, this initiative focuses on increasing awareness about inclusivity and supporting the implementation of cultural rights in everyday practice. It aims to ensure that everyone has the right to access, participate in, and enjoy culture, cultural heritage, and cultural expression;
• Intercultural Dialogue Projects: Arts Council Malta supports projects that promote cross-cultural understanding and the management of cultural diversity. These projects often include educational components that inform students about different world religions, cultural influences, and the importance of intercultural dialogue;
• Culturally Responsive Education: This approach uses the cultural knowledge, prior experiences, and frames of reference of ethnically diverse students to make learning more appropriate and effective. It aims to create an inclusive educational environment that respects and values diversity.

These efforts are part of a broader strategy to foster cultural citizenship and ensure that students are well-informed about their rights and responsibilities, as well as the diverse cultural landscape within their society.

Efforts at diversity education aim to take into consideration the rapidly changing school population. In 2022-2023 migrant students totalled 6,125, rising to 8,379 by 2024. As per National Statistics Office (NSO) data for 2023, the largest communities were Italian (719), Syrian (452), Serbian (433), British (389), Libyan (322), Ukranian (305), Bulgarian and Indian (both 280), Chinese (207) and Romanian (188). Other nationalities include Hungarian, Nigerian, Pakistani, Eritrean, Colombian and Egyptian. Between 2022-2023, there was a total of 900 Arabic speaking students, including Tunisians, Palestinians and Sudanese.

Since 2023, as noted by the Media Pluralism Monitor, civil society organisations and the public have made use of opportunities for public engagement in cultural diversity awareness and familiarity. For instance, the NGO SOS Malta offered training in cultural diversity education for voluntary organisations and pupils. The Directorate for Research, Lifelong Learning and Employability under the Ministry of Education offers online media literacy courses.

A targeted course for senior citizens, formerly run by the Foundation for Global Human Dignity and the eSkills Malta Foundation, the latter now integrated into the Malta Digital Innovation Authority (MDIA), features sessions on website credibility and fact-checking. The African Media Association Malta covers media literacy as part of its human rights workshops. However, despite the existence of these ad hoc modules, critical media use remains a minor part in most media literacy education.

Last update: October, 2026

The European Media Freedom Act (Regulation (EU) 2024/900) became fully applicable in August 2025. Malta issued Legal Notice 175/2025 as implementing measure and established an Office for Advertising and the Media.

Historically, the Broadcasting Act of 1991 abolished the state monopoly over the media and liberalised the market. Subsequently, the two major political parties and the Catholic Church involved themselves in audiovisual production. The liberalisation also led to economic growth, with a significant increase in advertising revenue, and the provision of job opportunities for journalists and broadcasters at private and community stations. As reported by the Media Pluralism Monitor, the lack of oversight on matters of transparency remains an issue till today.

The media sector in Malta is diverse, encompassing public, commercial, and non-profit entities across traditional and new media. Mainly due to data accessibility and keeping in line with previously published international research, the Media Pluralism Monitor (MPM) for 2024 notes that the plurality of media providers indicator shows a much lower score than in MPM 2023, with 77% as opposed to 94%.

There are no rules on cross-media ownership. The two main political parties own the top radio stations, TV stations, and newspapers, while the Labour Party also has a digital native news website.

There is no single media authority to regulate such matters. The only prohibition is that nationwide radio or television services cannot own, control or be editorially responsible for community radio services, which are peripheral. There are no established concentration caps, except the provision that a single entity can at most control 1 nationwide radio service, 2 generalist TV service stations, 1 nationwide TV service, and 1 radio or TV service predominantly transmitting news and current affairs, as per the Broadcasting Act. The audiovisual market remains dominated by the public broadcaster and partisan TV and radio stations.

Given the limited data availability, the MPM 2024 plurality in digital markets indicator has a score of 86%, which is consistent with MPM2023. Maltese media are compelled to use dominant social media platforms due to their overwhelming popularity, in spite of diminishing, small returns to the media. Based on the limited internationally available data and the Broadcasting Authority’s survey, Google and Meta’s products are the main gateways to news for many people, and only the homepages of the Times of Malta and Lovin Malta compete with social media platforms. For instance, Facebook enjoys ad reach equivalent to two thirds of the total population. The figure for Facebook Messenger represented over half of the total population, while LinkedIn and Instagram had ad reach close to half of the population. Furthermore, competition law in Malta lacks media-specific provisions.

A 2023 Euromedia Ownership Monitor overview of the organisation and ownership structure is available through the 2025 country report.

In terms of the current regulatory framework, the media sector is regulated by the Broadcasting Authority (BA), which enforces the Broadcasting Act, the Electronic Communications (Regulation) Act, and the Media and Defamation Act. These laws govern licensing, ownership restrictions, and content regulation.

All party-controlled media employ Maltese as a primary language of communication, thus showing that politicians are aware of the efficacy of Maltese in reaching out to the largest possible number of people, while the electronic media outlet of the Catholic Church employs both English and Maltese. The market share of these outlets is quite considerable, although it varies with the support levels garnered among the general Maltese population by the entities (political parties and Church) using them as a platform.

Most media outlets have a director, a manager and/or board members who have Maltese citizenship, while most companies (including secondary and tertiary owners) are registered in Malta. A large segment of the independent media is privately-owned and provides mainly content in English. Among these are the largest media outlets, combining print with online platforms. They hold large market shares and have legacy-outlets, such as Times of Malta and The Malta Independent. The public broadcaster (TVM) still plays an important role in the Maltese media landscape through its television and radio channels and online platform; however, its political independence has been questioned. The intrinsic design of its governance structure makes it vulnerable to ideological interventions in its editorial policies from the part of the political party in charge. The State Media Monitor Global Dataset 2025 classification of PBS is of it being ‘state-controlled’, while the EC Rule of Law Report 2025 found ‘no progress’ on editorial independence.

Publishing via the Internet has led to significant changes to the media landscape in Malta. Journalists and opinion writers need not be associated with traditional print media. This has led to a number of individual bloggers as well as fledgling private news organisations which have achieved a significant following amongst the Maltese English-speaking public.

While acknowledging the importance of the Broadcasting Act, including provisions to prevent excessive concentration of media ownership by setting limits on the number of broadcasting licenses a single entity can hold, and the Media and Defamation Act, aiming to ensure transparency in media ownership and prevent conflicts of interest, there are concerns about the effectiveness of these regulations. The European Commission's 2025 Rule of Law report highlighted ongoing issues with media freedom and concentration in Malta. The report noted that there has been little progress in enhancing the independent governance and editorial independence of the public broadcaster, and there are still significant obstacles to media pluralism.

Another amendment to Malta’s Broadcasting Act that was straightforward yet significant was enacted through the Broadcasting (Amendment) Act 2014 – Act No. XXXII. It ensures that the principle that ‘freedom to broadcast and to receive broadcasts is guaranteed’, as well as the principle that ‘freedom of reception is guaranteed’, and that ‘freedom of retransmission in Malta of audiovisual media services from other Member States for reasons which fall within the fields co-ordinated by the (European Union Audiovisual Media Services) Directive is guaranteed’, can be regulated in terms of the Broadcasting Act itself, while not being subjected to any other law. This amendment followed representations by the European Commission to the Government of Malta to ensure full compliance of Malta’s legislation with the relevant European Union Directive.

The share of domestic versus imported media programs in Malta varies across different types of media.

Detailed, publicly accessible data on the exact share of domestic versus imported media programs is limited. Reports often highlight the need for more transparency and better data.

The MPM2024 political independence indicator reached the highest risk score ever at 84%, one percentage point higher than in the MPM2023. Furthermore, the independence of public service media (97%), political independence of media (94%) and editorial autonomy (88%) are areas of particular concern. As attested by national and internationally comparative research, relatively high degrees of political polarisation and influence are rather widely accepted and tolerated. While enjoying market leadership, PBS continues to be embroiled in controversies regarding impartiality and public spending. It has retained its status as a state-controlled public broadcaster.

The score for social inclusiveness has entered the high-risk band according to the MHM2024. On the one hand, the situation is dire in terms of representation of minorities (97%) and gender equality in the media (82%). On the other hand, improvements were registered in media literacy (57%) and protection against disinformation and hate speech (65%). Courses on media literacy have contributed to this betterment. However, one should note that such courses are mainly focused on digital content production skills. Such courses are available in formal, non-formal, and informal education settings. Some target vulnerable groups, notably senior citizens. Two newsrooms run regular fact checking and disinformation monitoring initiatives.

The social inclusiveness score in the digital domain has remained constant between MPM2023 and MPM2024, at 58%. The gap between the digital and the overall score has widened slightly. Issues of gender imbalance, low visibility of minorities, and limited access to people with disabilities extend to the digital domain as well.

Malta has implemented a number of measures and policies to promote the diversity of cultural expression, especially in response to the challenges posed by technological disruption and the influence of streaming platforms. These include the Artistic Freedom Bill, approved in 2023, to enhance the freedom of artistic expression, protecting artists from prosecution and promoting broad cultural expression. It is also worth mentioning the Cultural Rights campaign, administered by Arts Council Malta to promote cultural rights and ensure diverse cultural expressions are supported. Funding, grants and efforts at enhancing the digital presence of  Maltese cultural content extends to digital archives and online platforms.

There have also been regulatory measures. These include the Broadcasting Act, that includes provisions to ensure a quotas of local content are broadcast on television and radio. The Electronic Communications Act includes regulations that apply to digital platforms, ensuring they adhere to local content requirements and cultural policy. Additionally, international streaming services operating in Malta are subject to local content regulations.

With regard to freedom of speech, the media landscape contributes significantly to public discourse, information dissemination, and cultural expression. Both traditional media, including newspapers and television broadcasters, and digital platforms such as blogs and social media, are subjected to these regulations, which shape how content is created and shared.

Traditional media in Malta has historically faced challenges that stem from political influences and societal pressures. The struggle for editorial independence is an ongoing issue, as media outlets often find themselves navigating a delicate balance between ensuring compliance with censorship laws and fulfilling their duty to inform the public. Notably, the Maltese media has a responsibility to present diverse perspectives while adhering to legal guidelines that restrict certain types of expression. This regulation can lead to a hesitance in reporting controversial or sensitive topics, consequently impacting the overall landscape of public discourse.

With the rise of digital media, new opportunities and challenges have emerged in the context of censorship and freedom of speech. Online platforms provide a greater space for diverse voices and opinions, yet they also introduce complexities regarding regulatory oversight. Journalists and content creators are often confronted with the dilemma of self-censorship, as the fear of repercussions may hinder robust discussions on significant issues. Digital media’s rapid evolution means that censorship laws must adapt to keep pace, influencing how information is conveyed and received in Maltese society.

The landscape of freedom of speech and censorship laws in Malta has been under significant scrutiny in recent years, particularly against the backdrop of global shifts toward either the protection or restriction of individual rights. Noteworthy court cases have emerged that challenge the existing frameworks safeguarding freedom of expression. For instance, a landmark ruling from the Maltese judiciary has underscored the importance of journalistic freedom, demonstrating the critical need to balance freedom of speech with legal accountability.

Legislative changes have also played a role in shaping the discussion around censorship. Government has introduced measures aimed at updating laws that address hate speech and online harassment, reflecting a growing concern about the implications of digital communication on public discourse. However, critics argue that some of these legislative reforms may inadvertently curtail freedoms, suggesting that the terms used to define unacceptable speech could be overly broad. This perspective raises alarms among activists who contend that increased censorship in the guise of regulation can impede genuine dialogue.

Public reactions to these developments have been mixed. On the one hand, calls for stronger protections for journalists and civilians have stressed the necessity for an environment where dissenting voices can be heard without fear of repercussion. On the other hand, segments of society express support for stricter regulations, arguing that they are essential in maintaining social cohesion. This division highlights the ongoing struggle to achieve a balance between safeguarding individual rights and upholding social order.

There exists a tension between state interests and civil liberties, leading to an atmosphere of uncertainty regarding the development of free speech. International trends indicate that many nations are grappling with similar dilemmas, suggesting that Malta’s developments in this area reflect a wider, ongoing debate on the importance of preserving democratic freedoms while addressing societal concerns.

In addition to grassroots activism, potential reforms in legislation could redefine the balance between public safety and individual expression. Engaging in constructive dialogue around these issues, along with gaining insights from international best practices, can help Malta navigate the delicate balance needed to protect both public order and freedom of speech. As the global dialogue on human rights and freedom of expression continues to develop, Malta must remain vigilant in ensuring that its laws promote, rather than hinder, effective communication and healthy debate.

A 2024 report by the Mediterranean Digital Media Observatory (MedDMO) and the University of Malta on the growing disinformation tactic of launching bogus copyright complaints submitted to Google against investigative journalists notes that Malta has long had a problem with its attitude towards journalism. It identifies its roots in the the polarised nature of its politics and poor understanding of the role of the press in society.

Many attempts to censor the media in Malta have been registerd over the past years. The report identifies examples from recent years including a major spoofing attack in August 2021, when counterfeit websites and false articles and emails purporting to be by journalists and other outspoken individuals flooded the information landscape. More recently, in May 2024, journalists were accused of forming part of ‘the Establishment’ that government claimed had taken over the institutions.

There is a significant number of strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) filed in Malta, which is reported as the country having the highest number of these per capita in Europe. Government had transposed the EU anti-SLAPP directive stating that Malta was the first EU member state to do so, through a legal notice, bypassing parliament. However, issues with the published legislation emerged, including the fact that it provides no legal protection against domestic SLAPP cases, as noted by the 2025 report written by the partner organisations of the Council of Europe Platform to Promote the Protection of Journalism and Safety of Journalists. The Directive's transposition deadline of 7 May 2026 has passed; Malta's Legal Notice 177/2024 covers only cross-border cases. The Coalition Against SLAPPs in Europe named Malta "SLAPP Country of the Year 2024" and domestic cases remain unprotected.

Maltese sign language is recognised as an official language, and some news segments have sign language interpretation, but this is not universal. The Broadcasting Authority reporting contains no mention of media accessibility for people with disability or Maltese sign language. There is no specific legislation which covers access to the media for disabled people. Nevertheless, Article 9 and Article 21 of the Broadcasting Act refer to accessibility in its widest form and access to information.

Malta has no inclusion policy for TV and multimedia.

The latest Global Media Monitoring Project (2020) noted that minorities of non-Maltese background were visible or mentioned in only 10% of the cases, mostly in the celebrity, media, sport, social and legal contexts. There is a lack of data on the visibility of minorities, and a lack of willingness to collect that data.

The Arts Council Malta (ACM) Screen Support Scheme as elaborated upon in sections 3.5.3 and 7.2.3.

Malta features TV programmes and series dedicated to arts and culture that also have an online presence. A main example is Maltarti, a platform that provides comprehensive coverage of arts and culture in Malta, featuring content on national TV stations. It includes a range of programmes that highlight local artistic events, exhibitions, and cultural activities.

Campus 103.7 is a broadcast and online radio station managed by the University of Malta that produces programmes addressing educational, cultural and scientific content as the mainstay of its schedule. Its online archive is extensive and spans a great deal of its 25-year history.

Higher education and ad hoc training courses do exist to sensitise journalists and media professionals when addressing matters that impinge on cultural diversity. These include courses at the University of Malta and the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST).

Last update: October, 2026

Malta’s language landscape is characterised by its bilingualism, where the addition of English, to Maltese, as an official language is a remnant of the country’s British colonial past. In general terms, Maltese is employed to communicate orally, especially in informal contexts, while English tends to be used more in writing. However, the use of the two languages can differ significantly across different sectors. For instance, English is favoured in tertiary education, while Maltese is much more prevalent in Parliament, the Law Courts, the religious sphere and broadcasting. As has been studied, the choice of language may also act as a differentiating social factor, with English being often associated with individuals pertaining to higher socio-economic sector or with a higher level of education.

Maltese Sign Language was officially recognised by the Parliament of Malta in 2016 through the Maltese Sign Language Recognition Act (CAP. 556).

In 2005, the Ministry for Education set up the National Council for the Maltese Language (Il-Kunsill Nazzjonali tal-Ilsien Malti) to address the needs and the development of the Maltese language. The Council is responsible for producing strategic positions on the protection and enhancement of the national language, including the promotion of Maltese literature.

There also exist other state bodies addressing the Maltese language. These include the Centre for the Maltese Language (Iċ-Ċentru tal-Ilsien Malti) and the National Book Council (Il-Kunsill tal-Ktieb). The former (the Centre) has undertaken interesting exercises in addressing the role of Artificial Intelligence and language use with the University of Malta. The latter (the Council) focuses on publishing in Maltese as well as reading, and as from 2026 falls under the reconfigured ministry responsible for culture.

Maltese is the primary language by respondents to the State of the Nation 2024 survey (71.3%).* This data confirms earlier responses collected by the Centre for the Maltese Language and the University of Malta (2021). There are 7.6% of people who responded to this survey who said that English is their primary language. A little more than twenty percent of people consider both Maltese and English as their primary languages (20.3%).

According to the National Statistics Office (NSO) 2024 data about main languages spoken, Maltese is spoken by around 350,000 people, English by around 50,000, Italian by around 13,000, German by around 10,000, Arabic by around 8,500, French by around 4,500, while other languages by around another 60,000 people. Figures published in 2023 by NSO for 2022/2023 reflect the highest number of migrants coming from, among others, Italy (1,670), a combination of EU states (3,414), a combination of European countries (1438), Indian (777), Albanian (690), Filipino (545), Serbian (317), Bulgarian (245) and Nepalese (212). Insights are provided into efforts at integration through language learning in research carried out in 2019, 2021 and 2024.

One may get a sense of the rapid and significant changes experienced by school populations by comparing the following figures. In the 2012/2013 school year, the number of migrant pupils in Maltese schools stood at 1,890. In 2021/22, this number increased to 6,819 (NSO 2024). At the same time, the number of Maltese births is steadily decreasing since Malta has the lowest fertility rate in Europe (Eurostat, 2021). Maltese primary schools host the largest percentage of non-Maltese children, standing at 15% of the schools’ population in 2020/21 (NSO 2023). This state of affairs is inevitably impacting schools both culturally and linguistically.

The diversity of school populations is a salient point in relation to access to education. Calleja, Ragonesi and Martinelli (2013) address the degrees of integration of Somali children in the Maltese educational system and argue that Malta’s policies seem to be among the least favourable in Europe for migrant pupils. Contributing factors include the availability and implementation of policies that target the specific needs of newcomers, including funding and language support.

Azzopardi (2008) advocates for schools to respond to cultural differences by implementing a more inclusive discourse and understanding on multicultural issues; this could lead to deeper educational transformation and the development of cultural sensitivity. The setting up of the Migrant Learners’ Unit in 2014 has helped to overcome some barriers, particularly linguistic barriers, that impact the integration of migrants in Malta.

Malta’s National Curriculum Framework (NCF) elaborates extensively on the European, global and intercultural dimensions within the educational system. The Department for Curriculum, Lifelong Learning, and Employability within the Directorate for Quality and Standards in Education has initiated the Foreign Language Awareness Programme (FLAP) for primary school students in Years 3 to 6. Designed to cultivate an appreciation for foreign languages and cultures, FLAP aims to foster a positive attitude towards mobility and new experiences among students aged 7 to 11 years. Implemented by a team of teachers specialising in Italian, French, and German, the programme integrates language awareness activities into playful learning experiences.

The Institute for Education (IfE) is dedicated to promoting high-quality education for all educators and cultivating communities of learning excellence. It offers Initial Teacher Training and professional development programmes designs to incorporate, amongst others, principles of equity and social justice throughout all its programmes. 

The Directorate for Learning and Assessment Programmes also conducts voluntary training sessions for educators in Global Education. IfE provides free, non-accredited sessions for educators to enhance their knowledge and skills in areas of personal interest. These sessions are also available to those undergoing Initial Teacher Training. Some modules are delivered in collaboration with Kopin, a Maltese NGO dedicated to sustainability. The following are some of the modules offered at the institute related to Global Education:

• The Influence of Narratives in the Multicultural Society
• Developing Intercultural Communication Capabilities
• Global Kids. Skills and Competencies needed to help our Kids to become Global Citizens
• Migration and Sustainable Development – Implication on Schools and Teachers
• Multiculturalism

The Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) offers several Master in Vocational Education courses with various specialisations tailored to the needs of Vocational Education and Training (VET) professionals. This programme includes targeted compulsory modules designed to deepen understanding and application in critical areas of VET, including Embracing Cultural and Ethnic Diversity in VET (MQF Level 5). This 75-hour module explores how to integrate multicultural strengths into teaching practices. It focuses on developing cultural self-efficacy and effective intercultural communication skills. It also addresses macro-level factors such as government policies on migrant integration and economic challenges, preparing educators to foster inclusive and culturally sensitive learning environments.

Since 2017, Malta has been an active member of GENE, a European network comprising Ministries and Agencies tasked with national responsibilities for policymaking, funding, and support in Global Education (GE).  https://education.gov.mt/public-bodies/early-years-languages-and-humanities-programmes-transversal/

The primary aim is to understand educators' perspectives, identify training opportunities, and adopt a holistic approach within schools and institutions to address global themes. In alignment with the NCF, GE encompasses social, economic, and environmental dimensions. The framework supports a cross-curricular integration of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and GE, inspired by the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Schools are encouraged to systematically embed these themes across all formal curriculum areas and educational cycles. 

GENE has directly funded 24 schools for projects linked to GE. Additionally, all schools receive curricular support through professional development sessions and administrative guidance, ensuring that school policies reflect GE values and principles. In-class support is also provided to help educators align formal education with global citizenship education. Furthermore, GENE's financial backing has supported the establishment of two Global Citizenship Education Centres in local schools, which enhance contemporary learning methodologies related to local, European, and global realities.

* * Marmarà, Vincent; Bondì, Lou. 2024. L-Istat tan-Nazzjon. Midsea Books

Last update: October, 2026

The National Cultural Policy (NCP 2021) adopts a proactive approach to identify and reduce barriers to enable greater and more equal participation in cultural life, regardless of gender, cultural background, age and sexual orientation, among others. Its research plan addresses the barriers that limit cultural participation and adopts a gender perspective to uncover inequalities.

In terms of governance, transparent criteria for the selection and appointment of leadership positions in relevant councils, commissions, agencies and public cultural organisations apply. Attention is given to increased sectoral representation and gender equality.

While there is still ample room for further female representation on boards and in top management positions, leadership at cultural institutions featuring key female positions and senior managerial positions provide a rather balanced representation. Examples include Arts Council Malta and its Sectoral Representative Working Group, the Valletta Cultural Agency, the Valletta Design Cluster, the National Agency for the Performing Arts (NAPA) and the Malta International Contemporary Arts Space (MICAS).

Gender issues in Malta are addressed in the programmes of the National Council of Women, established in 1964, and the National Commission for the Promotion of Equality (NCPE). There are no specific strategies to support women as professionals in the cultural labour market in the form of quota schemes or mainstreaming programmes.

As per National Statistics Office (NSO) data published in 2023, the number of females employed in ‘arts, entertainment and recreation’ as their main occupation was of 5,600, with 7,955 being males.

The importance of recognising Malta’s increasingly diverse and multicultural workforce and the various aspects of its identities and needs is highlighted by the LGBTQI+ strategy for 2024-2027 particularly in relation to the need for cultural mediators.

Several factors contribute to the lower consideration of creative careers among girls in Malta. The following reflections are based on Perspectives on Cultural Participation in Malta 2017 commissioned by Arts Council Malta (ACM):

• Barriers to Participation: Girls and women face barriers such as time constraints, financial limitations, and traditional gender roles that limit their engagement in cultural activities;
• Lack of Awareness: There may be a lack of awareness about the diverse career opportunities available in the creative industries;
• Educational Gaps: While educational initiatives have been effective, there may still be gaps in integrating arts education comprehensively across all schools;
• Societal Expectations: Traditional societal expectations and gender roles can discourage girls from pursuing careers in the creative industries;
• Girls with a disability: This section of society may be experiencing a serious double bind, also in the arts.
• Educational Initiatives: Strengthening arts education in schools and creating programs that specifically encourage girls to explore creative careers;
• Mentorship Programmes: Establishing mentorship programs where successful women in the creative industries can guide and inspire young girls;
• Flexible Working Arrangements: Promoting flexible working arrangements to help women balance work, family, and creative pursuits;
• Awareness Campaigns: Running campaigns to raise awareness about the opportunities in the creative industries and to challenge traditional gender roles;
• Financial Support: Providing financial incentives, scholarships, and grants to support women pursuing careers in the creative industries;
• Gender Mainstreaming: The Maltese government has committed to gender mainstreaming, assessing the implications for women and men of any planned action, including policies and programs in all spheres;
• Equality for Men and Women Act (2003): This law combats discrimination and promotes gender equality across various sectors, including culture and the arts;
• Tax Incentives and Subsidies: Policies such as tax incentives for working parents, improved maternity and paternity leave, and subsidized childcare services support women's participation;
• Culture and Wellbeing Platform: This platform hosted by ARC Research & Consultancy promotes collaborations between healthcare practitioners and creative professionals to enhance wellbeing through cultural activities;
• Artworks Campaign: This campaign promotes diverse career pathways in the creative sectors, encouraging more women to pursue careers in the arts;
• Right to Culture Campaign: Aimed at spreading awareness about cultural rights, ensuring everyone, regardless of gender, has access to cultural activities;
• Apprenticeship Scheme: This scheme provides women with opportunities to gain practical experience and develop their skills in the creative industries;
• Diversity and Communities Initiatives: Programs focused on diversity and inclusivity, ensuring women from different backgrounds have access to cultural and creative opportunities;
• Migrant girls and women: support for their participation in cultural activity and free expression of cultural diversity, as in activities managed by Dance Beyond Borders in collaboration with various entities including ACM.

Last update: October, 2026

The National Cultural Policy 2021 (NCP 2021) prioritises increasing cultural access and widening participation, including regarding disability. One of the main areas given attention is open and accessible community spaces. Related to that, the importance of community-based activity is highlighted by the 2030 Strategy issued by Arts Council Malta (ACM).

Furthermore, NCP 2021 also commits to look beyond simple access to culture for people with disabilities as consumers or in terms of therapeutic intervention. Inspired by the Equal Opportunities (Persons with Disability) Act (Cap. 413) and the framework of the EU Work Plan for Culture (at the time 2019-2022) establishing an ecosystem supporting cultural and creative professionals and European content, NCP 2021 commits to look at increasing the participation of creatives with disabilities so that they and their work are equally represented and visible across the sectors.

ACM has initiatives aimed at increasing inclusivity and supporting the implementation of cultural rights. The Right to Culture resource pack is designed to raise awareness about inclusivity and support the implementation of cultural rights in day-to-day practice.

ACM has highlighted the need for accessible theatre venues and spaces, ensuring that performers and audiences with disabilities have full access. This includes making stages, dressing rooms, and other facilities accessible.These efforts are part of a broader commitment to integrate culture into national development and ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can participate in and enjoy cultural activities.

The Commission for the Rights of Persons with Disability (CRPD) collaborates with ACM putting into practice policy for further collaboration, as set out in the NCP 2021). One important collaboration concerns the assessment of accessibility in cultural venues, starting with public cultural ones. The research supporting these actions includes: CRPD. Access for All. Design Guidelines. 2011, 3rd edition and Spazji Teatrali: A Catalogue of Theatres in Malta and Gozo (commissioned by ACM).

There are a small number of impactful cultural organisations that target the direct participation of people with disabilities in the arts. These include Opening Doors and Villabianca.