https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/1456 Sun, 19 Apr 2026 00:24:18 GMT 2026-04-19T00:24:18Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145614 Title: Labouring behind closed doors : the living and working conditions of Filipino live-in carers in Malta Authors: Vassallo, Mario Thomas; Debono, Manwel Abstract: In today’s globalized world, characterised by international competitiveness, labour outsourcing, workforce volatility and the weakening of the trade unionism movement, matters related to the precariousness of work have become more prevalent in political and social discourse. Both public administrations and private enterprises worldwide are shunning their legal and moral obligations towards permanent workers by replacing their jobs with definite contracts and temporary work. Poor conditions of work might be even more audacious for domestic workers who perform their duties in private households. [excerpt] Wed, 01 May 2019 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145614 2019-05-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/144551 Title: Shaping gender-power dynamics in academia : the role of organisational practices and policies Authors: Külcür, Rakibe; Bonello Rutter Giappone, Krista; Baysan, Sultan; Brown, Maria; Showunmi, Victoria; Novelskaitė, Aurelija Abstract: This paper examines how organisational practices and policies influence gender-power dynamics within academia. Using qualitative autobiographical comparative inquiry, it explores the lived experiences of mainly female academics from diverse backgrounds. The findings are based on the data collected within the COST Action CA20137 VOICES network, using E-survey techniques consisting of both quantitative and qualitative research questions. The data collected from 36 participants was analysed using an intersectional approach, addressing how institutional hierarchies sustain inequities. The findings highlight persistent patriarchal norms that prioritise masculine perspectives and systematically undervalue women’s contributions. Participants described experiences of marginalisation, harassment, and unequal career opportunities, which are often compounded by intersecting factors such as gender, age, ethnicity, nationality, and socio-economic status. In the analysis conducted, precarious working conditions – one of the defining features of neoliberal academic systems – emerged as a major factor driving and exacerbating these inequalities, creating instability and heightened vulnerability, particularly for women and other marginalised groups. Research participants also highlighted disparities in workload distribution, with junior academics, particularly women, bearing disproportionate administrative and teaching responsibilities while senior, tenured academics retain privileges. Participants critiqued the lack of transparency and solidarity within institutions, noting how hierarchical systems reinforce inequities and discourage collective resistance. By combining personal narratives with structural analysis, this research offers a deeper understanding of how organisational practices sustain gendered power dynamics in academia. Consequently, it aims to contribute to a more just and inclusive academic environment. Thu, 01 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/144551 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/144067 Title: The working conditions of Filipinos in Malta Authors: Debono, Manwel; Vassallo, Mario Thomas Abstract: The small island state of Malta is passing through an unprecedented period of social change and economic development. Fast economic growth is resulting in an increasingly problematic shortage of labour supply, creating human resources in various sectors. The influx of foreign workers in Malta over the last years has been substantial, and is set to continue increasing. Currently, nearly a fifth of all workers in Malta are foreigners, when compared to about 1% in 2000. The 2,400 Filipino workers in Malta constitute the largest group of third country nationals in the country. [excerpt] Wed, 01 May 2019 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/144067 2019-05-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/143994 Title: Youth employment policies in Malta Authors: Debono, Manwel Abstract: EXCEPT Working Papers are peer-reviewed outputs from the http://www.except-project.eu/ project. The series is edited by the project coordinator Dr. Marge Unt and by the project co-coordinator Prof. Michael Gebel. These working papers are intended to meet the European Commission’s expected impact from the project:; i. to advance the knowledge base that underpins the formulation and implementation of relevant policies in Europe with the aim of enhancing the employment of young people and improving the social situation of young people who face labour market insecurities, and ii. to engage with relevant communities, stakeholders and practitioners in the research with a view to supporting relevant policies in Europe. Contributions to a dialogue about these results can be made through the project website http://www.except-project.eu/, or by following us on twitter @except_eu.; ii. to engage with relevant communities, stakeholders and practitioners in the research with a view to supporting relevant policies in Europe. Contributions to a dialogue about these results can be made through the project website http://www.except-project.eu/, or by following us on twitter @except_eu. Mon, 01 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/143994 2018-01-01T00:00:00Z