The transition of Maltese military veterans to new careers after 25 years of service

Abstract

Transitioning from military to civilian life is a complex and deeply personal journey, especially for Maltese veterans who have served for over 25 years. This paper explores the various challenges that military retirees face as they navigate the shift to civilian employment, adjustments in personal identity, and the psychological transitions involved. Grounded in theoretical frameworks such as the theory of human motivation, rite of passage, and work adaptation theory, this research employs a qualitative approach to capture the lived experience of veterans. Twelve in-depth narrative interviews, were analyses thematically following Braun and Clarke’s (2022) framework to identify recurring patterns and meanings across their narratives. Key findings highlight the difficulties in translating military expertise into civilian job markets, the psychological consequences of leaving a high-adrenaline environment, and the vital role of career guidance in facilitating this transition. Veterans expressed frustration over the lack of recognition for their military qualifications and the substantial costs associated with requalifying for civilian roles. Emotional and psychological challenges, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the loss of camaraderie, further exacerbate these difficulties. Despite these obstacles, participants demonstrated resilience through adaptive coping strategies, such as exploring new professional and personal pursuits. This paper emphasises the urgent need for policy reforms to recognise military qualifications, establish structured career guidance during mid-service, and develop mentorship programmes to support veterans in their transition to civilian life. By implementing these strategies, policymakers and career advisors can better assist veterans' reintegration and ensure that their service is honoured through meaningful post-military careers.