https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/141601 Sun, 12 Apr 2026 23:51:41 GMT 2026-04-12T23:51:41Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/141625 Title: Criminalising homelessness? : an analysis of vagrancy, begging and loitering laws in Malta Abstract: This dissertation examines how the Maltese laws of vagrancy, begging and loitering relate to similar international laws that scholars argue disproportionately affect individuals experiencing homelessness. The research purpose was to understand the arguments both supporting and opposing such laws, and to consider how these insights might inform social policy in Malta. A qualitative research design was adopted, in which peer-reviewed academic literature was thematically analysed to identify recurring themes around the criminalisation of homelessness. The analysed articles included discussions on the implications of complaint driven enforcement practices, the barriers to reintegration and support faced by those experiencing homelessness, and the normative justifications for interventions targeting street homelessness. While efforts were made to locate literature outlining the negative consequences of repealing these provisions, no substantive evidence in favour of their retention were identified. This analysis informed the subsequent consideration of vagrancy, begging and loitering laws in Malta, and led to three recommendations: repeal Articles 338(w) and 338(x) of the Criminal Code, phase-out loitering bylaws, and invest in structural supports such as affordable housing and low-threshold services. Description: B.A. (Hons)(Melit.) Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/141625 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/141624 Title: A comparative study on the access to social protection for migrant workers from outside the EU who are living in Malta or Ireland on the basis of an employment license Abstract: This dissertation analyses the national social protection legislation of Malta and Ireland, focusing specifically on the Social Security Act of Malta, and Ireland’s Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005 (running consolidation). Access to four welfare benefits is examined: unemployment benefits, pensions, guaranteed minimum resources, and healthcare benefits. The research aims to assess the level of access third-country national (TCN) workers with a single work permit (Malta) or general work permit (Ireland) have to these benefits, and to identify the challenges they face. Additionally, the study aims to analyse specific social protection characteristics in each country, aligning them with Sainsbury’s theoretical welfare regime framework. The research is contextualised in Chapters 1-3, with a brief introduction to each country’s social protection and third-country national migration contexts. A qualitative research approach is adopted, using policy content analysis and descriptive coding to examine the legislative texts, and a cross-national comparative design is applied to address the two-country focus. The findings and analysis reveal that although the legislation states the same eligibility requirements for all applicants, the intersection of social protection legislation, immigration legislation, and administrative procedures, result in TCN workers being disproportionately disadvantaged when trying to access social protection. Additionally, it is highlighted that both countries demonstrate characteristics of the conservative corporatist and liberal welfare regime types. Considering the findings, key recommendations include modifying legislation to ensure clearer eligibility and decision-making processes, increasing training for professionals involved in the social protection system, and providing unemployment benefits and allowing longer timeframes for TCN workers to find new employment. It is also recommended to increase the accessibility of information for TCN workers, and to promote changes aimed at supporting and protecting all workers equally. Overall, the findings highlight the need for accessible and equitable social protection provision, founded on the principle of valuing and supporting all workers, regardless of their nationality or immigration status. Description: B.A. (Hons)(Melit.) Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/141624 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z