https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/1125 2026-04-23T12:56:41Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145803 Title: Data scraping for scientific research purposes : legal bases under the GDPR Authors: Meilak Borg, Roxanne; Sant, Mireille M. Abstract: In research contexts, data scraping enables systematic collection of large-scale, real-world digital data. This article examines data scraping for research that is publicly funded or carried out in pursuit of public interest objectives, from the perspective of data protection law. It focuses on the GDPR requirement to identify a legal basis in order to ensure lawful processing. The analysis assesses the appropriateness of reliance on the lawful bases in Article 6(1), and possible derogations in Article 9(2) GDPR. It then considers (i) whether the said processing could benefit from the GDPR’s derogations for scientific research and (ii) whether exemptions relating to academic expression under Article 85 GDPR apply. The article concludes that the GDPR does not currently provide a readily-available legal basis for research carried out in the public interest. It argues that future sector-specific legislation could provide legal certainty and reconcile the protection of personal data with the advancement of scientific research in an increasingly digital environment. The findings underscore the need for harmonised interpretations and best practices that balance transparency and accountability with the legitimate pursuit of scientific progress, thereby promoting a coherent and ethically responsible approach to the use of online data in research. 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145781 Title: L-Isla or Senglea? Abstract: The Local Council of L-Isla has issued a consultation document to change the name of L-Isla into Senglea. A booklet has been published to this effect containing arguments why this should be so. See The Malta Independent coverage of 14 April 2026 ‘Ísla Council opens debate on reverting to Senglea as official name’. [excerpt] 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145769 Title: Pope Leo XIV – the perennial peacemaker Abstract: ‘Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called sons of God’ (Mt 5:9). This is what Matthew, the evangelist, report Jesus Christ stating in the Sermon on the Mount.; Although both Pope Leo XIV and President Donald J. Trump are American, the similarity ends there. Pope Leo XIV is a peacemaker, President Trump is no longer the peacemaker that he claimed to be when the Maltese Foreign Minister nominated him for the Nobel prize for peace. Now he has shifted sides and is a warmonger. 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145717 Title: Feedback and analysis : House of Representatives (Malta) – 14th Legislature, Bill No. 169 – Advanced Medical Directives Act, 2026 [Government Gazette of Malta No. 21,603 – 13/03/2026] Abstract: A Bill entitled “Advanced Medical Directives Act, 2026” was tabled in Malta’s House of Representatives in March 2026. The report furnishes a brief analysis of the latter Bill, highlighting problems that may hamper the Bill were it adopted and listing recommendations so as to address those problems. This report was submitted, first to the Parliamentary Secretariat for Equality and Reforms on the 12th April 2026 and then to the Consideration of the Bills Committee on the 15th April 2026. 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z