From mainstream to margins : the evolution or decline of euroscepticism in Malta's party system

Abstract

In recent years we have witnessed a surge of Eurosceptic parties. From the Brexit campaign to the Front National, they have significantly impacted their national political system across the continent. However, in Malta the situation is completely different. Since its membership in 2004, Eurosceptic perceptions have constantly decreased, making the Maltese population one of the most Europhile in Europe. Therefore, when looking back at Malta’s 2003 EU membership referendum it is hard to believe that 46.4% voted against EU integration. However, when one takes into account the national context, thanks to the country’s polarised mainstream party positions, a clearer image of the elements which led to this result become more evident. In this regard, it is interesting to note how, over a 16-year period, Malta’s political parties have affected the evolution or decline of Euroscepticism amongst the electorate, hence shifting national Euroscepticism from the mainstream to the margins.