https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/4647 2026-04-08T18:07:14Z 2026-04-08T18:07:14Z Buttigieg, Christopher P. Micallef, Eric https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145191 2026-03-26T22:22:05Z 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The money laundering reporting officer : some reflections from Malta Authors: Buttigieg, Christopher P.; Micallef, Eric Abstract: The role of the Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) has become increasingly complex and critical in the face of evolving regulatory frameworks and rapid technological advancements. This paper examines the expanding responsibilities of MLROs, particularly within the context of the European Union's new AML supervisory framework and the proliferation of financial technology. It explores the multifaceted challenges faced by MLROs, including the need for technical expertise, regulatory compliance, and proactive risk management in an era of heightened personal liability. The paper also highlights the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven solutions in enhancing AML/CFT processes, while emphasising the irreplaceable role of human judgment in addressing emerging risks. Furthermore, it underscores the ethical and legal considerations associated with the adoption of advanced technologies, particularly in relation to data privacy and civil liberties. Ultimately, this paper argues that the successful navigation of these dynamic challenges by AML/CFT professionals is essential to maintaining the integrity and resilience of the global financial system in an increasingly complex and high-stakes environment.

2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/144513 2026-02-27T14:47:25Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The overlooked science of understanding the world : demography Abstract: Can demography explain China’s economic growth? Can it shed light on the challenges faced by African nations? Why do Canada and Luxembourg actively promote immigration? In 2023, Canada reached a historic population milestone of 40 million for the first time.

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z Di Gennaro, Luca Sanchez, Sevastian https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/144438 2026-02-27T09:36:33Z 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Untangling the relationship between democracy, data, and development : a dynamic two-stage analysis of the sustainable development goals Authors: Di Gennaro, Luca; Sanchez, Sevastian Abstract: As democratic institutions weaken globally, this paper investigates whether regime change affects statistical capacity –a country's ability to produce reliable statistics for policymaking– and whether this, in turn, affects country-level progress towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals. While previous research has uncovered correlations between democracy and statistical performance, democracy and sustainable development, and statistical capacity and development, the causal mechanisms and sequencing of these relationships remain underexplored. Using dynamic two-way fixed effects and first-difference techniques, this study produces overall insights into statistical capacity deterioration patterns across more than 150 countries from 2016-2023. This research contributes to the understanding of the democracy-development nexus and could help inform policy interventions aimed at preserving statistical independence and integrity during periods of political instability.

2026-01-01T00:00:00Z Di Gennaro, Luca https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/144392 2026-02-27T06:35:59Z 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: From National statistical office to State data agency : the Lithuanian experience as a test case for NSO-led data governance Authors: Di Gennaro, Luca Abstract: National Statistical Offices are increasingly expected to move beyond traditional statistical production and act as central stewards of national data ecosystems. This expansion creates a fundamental institutional tension: organizations built to guarantee professional independence and confidentiality are now being asked to promote data sharing, reuse, and policy analytics. This article examines Lithuania as a critical case of this transformation. In 2023, Statistics Lithuania was legally reconstituted as the State Data Agency (SDA), receiving a mandate that integrates official statistics with state-wide data governance. Drawing on legal analysis, institutional documentation, and operational evidence, the study explores how Lithuania has centralized administrative data flows, established a national data lake, and developed secure analytical environments to support ministries and municipalities. Concrete applications in health surveillance, social policy, and municipal planning demonstrate the benefits of this model, including reduced respondent burden, more timely indicators, and enhanced evidence-based decision-making. At the same time, the Lithuanian experience reveals significant governance risks related to confidentiality, politicization, and technological dependence. The paper argues that NSO-led data agencies can strengthen public sector capacity only if robust legal safeguards, transparent access procedures, and ethical oversight evolve alongside technological systems. Lithuania thus provides both inspiration and caution for countries seeking to reposition their statistical authorities at the centre of the digital state.

2026-01-01T00:00:00Z