https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/699 2026-11-12T12:04:26Z 2026-11-12T12:04:26Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150941 2026-11-11T13:37:32Z 2026-11-09T00:00:00Z

Title: Protests and their outcomes in Europe Abstract: In this opinion piece I draw on recent European protest data and sociological perspectives to explore why grievances produce different patterns of mobilisation, how protests can have unintended consequences, and why both street protests and electoral participation deserve serious consideration. I argue for evidence-based analysis rather than interpretations shaped by our political preferences.

2026-11-09T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150763 2026-11-04T11:28:25Z 2026-11-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Understanding budget 2027 Abstract: In this opinion piece I analyse Malta’s Budget 2027 from a sociological perspective, examining how it balances Keynesian economic intervention, fiscal responsibility and social stability amid international uncertainty. I raise questions about the social impacts of certain policies and the possibility of an integration trap. I discuss the significance of energy subsidies, social benefits, family support, pension increases and the Government’s proposed shift towards productivity-led economic growth. I also consider tourism’s infrastructural and environmental costs. A central concern is the differentiated treatment of third-country nationals, particularly workers who contribute to Malta’s economy but have not acquired long-term resident status. This raises important questions about social citizenship, working poverty and inclusion. Every Budget involves choices about who contributes, who benefits and who may be left behind. I argue for evaluating these choices through their social impacts and consequences for people's everyday lives.

2026-11-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150458 2026-10-26T11:21:17Z 2026-10-25T00:00:00Z

Title: Budgeting for Malta’s blue economy Abstract: Did you know that Malta’s Blue Economy directly employed around 26,400 people and generated approximately €1 billion in Gross Value Added in 2023, representing 8.9% of national employment and 5.4% of national GVA? It encompasses a diverse range of sectors, including coastal tourism, ports and maritime transport, fisheries, aquaculture, shipping, marine renewable energy and emerging technologies. Coastal tourism alone accounts for half of Malta’s Blue Economy GVA. In this opinion piece, I discuss the sector’s economic importance and the need for investment in maritime infrastructure, connectivity, skills, environmental sustainability and coordinated governance. I also argue that a sustainable and equitable Blue Economy must consider coastal communities, workers’ rights, fishing livelihoods, public access, Social Impact Assessment and people’s quality of life. The Blue Economy should be measured not only by the wealth and employment it generates, but also by its social and environmental impacts.

2026-10-25T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150387 2026-10-23T08:24:17Z 2026-10-11T00:00:00Z

Title: Budgetary investment in the social Abstract: In this opinion piece, I argue that Budget 2027 should invest in understanding social dimensions of policymaking. Drawing on MSA - Malta Sociological Association proposals, I highlight the importance of sociological research, Social Impact Assessment and evidence-based policymaking that considers people’s lived experiences.

2026-10-11T00:00:00Z