Youth and political activity in Malta

Abstract

Young people's participation and contribution to the socio-political sphere is a subject matter that lacks research and conspicuous data. This study aims to provide a contribution for the wider understanding and appreciation of young persons' roles as political actors. This dissertation examines the level of political activity Maltese young people are most liable to participate in and in particular, explores the conceptions, perceptions and motivations of a young political activist about being involved in politics. For the purpose of this study, a triangulation method was used through a mini-survey conducted randomly with young persons aged between 18 and 30 (N=92). Additionally, a series of semi-structured interviews (N=10) with young political activists from the two major Maltese political parties substantiated the secondary material about the subject. The data findings show that young persons' most probable level of participation is through vote casting, and that both political socialisation and psychological factors play important roles in a young political activist's lifestyle. The study concludes with: (i) recommendations for the enhancement of civic engagement in young persons, (ii) an explanation of the distinct sociopsychological aspects of youth political activism and (iii) the way forward for future research on the same subject.