https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/3343 2026-04-22T03:46:35Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/12480 Title: The cat and the rat sleep together an in-depth analysis of the factors that influence corruption in Malta Abstract: This study explored the factors that influence corruption in the local setting. Further to the presentation of the anti-corruption policies, institutions and dimensions that characterise the Maltese landscape, literature then focused on two major dimensions: the first, endogenous factors such as traits and behaviours; and the second, exogenous factors such as economic, democratic, institutional, legal, social and cultural variables. A model based on the literature was drawn and its applicability and generalisability to the understanding of corruption in Malta was examined. The experiences of ten participants were recorded through the use of an in-depth interview. The main themes that emerged include a number of traits and behaviours such as the need for achievement, locus of control, self-efficacy as well as risk-taking behaviour and other forms of social learning, amongst others. Furthermore, such traits and behaviours occur within a particular context, influenced by one’s social and cultural environment, legal and institutional considerations, as well as Malta’s political and economic climate, all against the principally important dimension of smallness. The implications of the findings highlight critical factors central to the understanding of corruption in the local setting, as well as the importance of creating the right framework for its respective redress. Description: M.A.PUBLIC POLICY 2011-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/3350 Title: The role of local councils in building sustainable and inclusive communities Abstract: The scope of this research study is to seek the role local councils should play to build an inclusive society. The study is focused on the refugees and non-Maltese citizens living in Malta and how they integrated or not into the local communities. A distinction is made between refugees and non-Maltese citizens as they have different needs for integration. The study takes a general look at inclusive societies and integration. Then it focuses on the case study of the Staffordshire County Council which already initiated integration programmes. Later on, four localities from the four different regions of Malta (excluding the region of Gozo) were chosen and an analysis of the refugees and non-Maltese citizens currently living in these localities is made. These localities were chosen using purposive sampling, in order to gain representative data. The four localities chosen are Marsa, Birżebbuġa, Ħal Balzan and St. Paul's Bay. The analysis shows that every locality has different challenges to meet in order to integrate these people. The non-governmental organisations and the Catholic Church are working to integrate these people into the community; however there is no legal way or guidelines which help local councils to integrate these individuals into the community. Also they do neither have the human resources nor the financial assistance in order to initiate programmes of integration. iv The conclusion suggests that the national government should devolve more power to local councils especially in the social aspect. In return local councils must work on integration by working on action plans at the regional committee level in order to share the human and financial resources. During the drafting of the policy all representatives of different ethnic minority groups shou Description: B.COM.(HONS)PUB.POL. 2011-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/3349 Title: Green public procurement : an evaluation of Malta's national action plan Abstract: This study is intended to provide a comprehensive picture of the policy-making process applied for Green Public Procurement in Malta. Despite the long drawn effort in this process, so far only limited results have been achieved. This study analyses the contributions and continuous inter-play amongst the various public entities involved. Institutional factors have played a significant role in this policy. This study critically analyses the central role of the leading entity and the inter-ministerial task force, given instances of conflict and lack of leadership experienced in the past. Conclusively it is argued that the integration and broadening of government environment management initiatives could possibly reinforce the framework within which Green Public Procurement and Sustainable Development objectives are to be obtained through government operations. Description: B.COM.(HONS)PUB.POL. 2011-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/3346 Title: Women at the top : a profile of selected Maltese women Abstract: This dissertation sheds light on the work experiences of several successful women through primary and secondary data. A major goal of this study is to gain a better understanding of the qualities and circumstances that have enabled these women to achieve such prestigious positions, thus establishing role models, in the hope of inspiring other women willing to reach the top. This year marks the 100th anniversary since the International Women's Day was celebrated for the first time, on the 8th March, 1911. This global day commemorates the economic, political and social achievements of women. In Malta, the empowerment of women is shown through the increasing number of women entering the labour market and also in reaching top positions. In this study, the metaphor of the 'glass ceiling' is explored and the success of twenty one Maltese women emerging from different aspects of society is analysed through secondary data. Additionally, the limitations and the route to success of four successful women is also explored through primary research. The information was collected using semi-structured qualitative interviews. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data collected. iv Reaching the top is surely extremely rewarding, however it comes at a price. The tradition that prevails the Maltese culture is that the man is the breadwinner, whilst the woman is the child bearer. This hinders a woman from entering the labour market. Additionally, obstacles are also present throughout a woman's career. Such obstacles include lack of experience, gender differences in linguistics styles and socialisation skills, and gender-based-stereotypes amongst others. Despite the fact that statistically women are underrepresented in top positions in Malta, the success of the few women who support, participation in voluntary organisations, hard work and determination are amongst the important factors that lead to success. Description: B.COM.(HONS)PUB.POL. 2011-01-01T00:00:00Z