A historical perspective of the border control function and organisational setup in Malta

Abstract

Malta’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East has long positioned its borders as vital points of transit and security. This dissertation explores the historical evolution and organisational development of the Malta Border Control Unit, focusing on how organisational change structures have shaped its effectiveness and role within national and European security frameworks. The study addresses three key research questions: (1) the extent to which organisational changes have enabled the Malta Border Control Unit to meet its objectives; (2) the extent to which the Border Control Unit is recognised as critical to national and international security; and (3) which areas require improvement to ensure optimal resource use parallel to evolving demands. A mixed-methods approach was employed in this study, combining interviews with policymakers and stakeholders and a quantitative survey distributed to all Border Control Officers. The data was analysed thematically and statistically, providing a comprehensive view of strategic and operational perspectives. Findings indicate that technological advancements, integration into the European Union (EU), and shifting to a civilian-led framework have strengthened operational efficiency. However, issues such as workforce stability, career progression, resource allocation, and communication continue to present challenges. Based on these findings, targeted recommendations are proposed to enhance leadership structures, training, and organisational efficiency. This dissertation contributes to broader discussions on border governance by offering insights into how small island states like Malta can ensure that the organisational setup of border control addresses national sovereignty with international responsibilities.