From policy to practice : cross-sector collaboration in Malta's recreational cannabis legislation

Abstract

This dissertation analyses the dynamics and efficacy of cross-sector collaboration in the formulation and implementation of Malta’s recreational cannabis legislation which was enacted in 2021. Malta, being one of the first European Union state that decriminalized recreational use of cannabis, presents a distinctive case study to analyse how governmental entities, civil society, non-governmental organisations, law enforcement and cannabis associations come together to coordinate and contribute to the policy development process. Using a qualitative approach, through document analysis of the White Paper, responses to the White Paper from various entities and semi-structured stakeholder interviews, this study identifies both alliances and strains within the collaboration process. Using this approach, the research highlights to what extent collaboration of each stakeholder has influenced governance, regulatory design and ultimately its implementation. Findings are highlighted and the roles of stakeholders are pointed out. The dissertation concludes with recommendations to augment cross-sectoral collaboration structures in other social policies.