https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/2579 2026-04-18T20:15:25Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145698 Title: Public contracts : a comparative analysis of Malta’s general and departmental contracts committees Abstract: Whether locally, nationally, or internationally, public procurement is an indispensable tool for all public administrations. With the correct use of public procurement procedures, economic operators have an equal chance to compete when government contracting authorities need to acquire supplies, services, or works. Public procurement is regulated both at the national and EU levels to guarantee good governance, transparency, and accountability in public expenditure, in addition to its significance to society in stimulating and developing the economy and implementing projects that provide for a social impact. This dissertation compares the functions of the various Departmental Contracts Committees ("DCCs") and the General Contracts Committee ("GCC") in the Maltese public procurement niche focusing specifically on procurement that involves the open and restricted procedures. The dissertation looks at factors that may influence the decisions made by officers selected to serve on these committees and attempts to shed light on the challenges these employees face. Furthermore, the study will assess the potential effects of these supplementary duties on their daily work schedule, specifically regarding job prioritisation and workload distribution that ensures project completion within established tight timeframes. While there is only one GCC, each ministry has its respective DCC setup, and although the functions of both types of committees are established by law, their workings, remits, and composition differ. In this regard, this paper compares the work carried out by the committees and analyses the advantages and cost effectiveness. Description: B.A. (Hons)(Melit.) 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145697 Title: The welfare of asylum-seekers : examining the benefits and challenges of Malta's asylum seekers from management’s perspective Abstract: This dissertation investigates the benefits and challenges of asylum-seekers in Malta, as well as the services they are being provided. This was done through one-on-one interviews with upper and middle management at the Agency for the Welfare of Asylum Seekers (AWAS). The responses obtained from these interviews were analysed using a thematic approach by Braun and Clarke (2006). The final themes presented in this study are “Legal Entitlements and Resource Allocation”, “Mental Health”, “Financial Situation”, “Employment”, “System and Structural Improvements” and “Social Awareness and Assimilation”. These themes were used to propose policies and recommendations were brought about to mitigate the current situation of asylum-seekers in Malta. Description: B.A. (Hons)(Melit.) 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145696 Title: The impact of the 2019 amendment of the cultural heritage act on the management of underwater cultural heritage Abstract: Following the amendment to the Cultural Heritage Act of 2019 related to underwater cultural heritage, this study examines the resulting changes in management, with a focus on access to underwater sites. It aims to identify the key actions taken and entities who are implementing changes to management in response to the legislative change. A mixed method approach was adopted, integrating both qualitative and quantitative data. Qualitative data was sourced from annual reports, academic papers and stakeholder responses, and subsequently thematically analysed. Quantitative data provided by UCHU was used to assess the extent of physical and digital access to underwater cultural heritage sites. The findings from the stakeholder perspective indicate that the amendment in the CHA of 2019 paved the way to the establishment of good practices and standards for the protection and management of Malta’s underwater cultural heritage. The declared Archaeological Zones at Sea made possible the creation of a controlled access system for underwater sites managed by the UCHU. The document analysis illustrates that communication with stakeholders is important to instil a shift in mindset and be able to transition from an unregulated to a regulated sector. Being a UNESCO Convention 2001 signatory, Malta’s outreach and awareness are set as obligations since the Convention supersedes local legislations. Documentation analysed also covered the various efforts to make underwater cultural heritage accessible to the non-diving public with the use of technology. The impact on the Maltese touristic sector was also taken into consideration, with MTA supporting various projects. This study aims to determine the changes implemented over the first five years since the enaction of the amendment, making it possible to review successes areas that require further attention and which have to potentially be strengthened. Description: B.A. (Hons)(Melit.) 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145694 Title: Public service policy analysis : perceptions of HR strategies in Malta’s public service Abstract: This research explores the effectiveness of Human Resource (HR) strategies and policies in addressing workplace bullying, sexual harassment, and victimisation within the Maltese Public Service. Adopting a qualitative approach, it combines document analysis of official publications with semi-structured interviews conducted with HR professionals to assess whether existing frameworks promote a safe and respectful work environment. The findings indicate a significant gap between policy and practice, largely due to limited awareness, inconsistent training, and fear of retaliation. This gap is further exacerbated by an unsupportive organisational culture, unclear reporting structures, and fragmented support mechanisms, all of which hinder the effective implementation of protective measures. In response to these challenges, participants emphasised the need for clearer communication, comprehensive training at all levels, and stronger leadership accountability. Based on the findings, the study recommends improving HR policy communication and enforcement through mandatory onboarding, anonymous reporting systems, and leadership engagement. Though based on a small, role-specific sample in Malta’s public service, the study offers valuable insights into how institutional actors interpret HR frameworks, contributing to wider discussions on organisational and cultural barriers to policy implementation. Description: B.A. (Hons)(Melit.) 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z