Working conditions of Maltese police women

Abstract

The number of policewomen in Malta has increased progressively since 1956. The aim of this study is to assess whether working conditions for women within the police force is equal to that of men. Since all members of the corps are obliged to undergo physical and academic training on recruitment, this study strives to inquire if training is the same for both sexes and if women often considered as the weaker sex, are at a disadvantage in this matter. This research also investigates discrimination and sexual harassment issues, and if certain police duties like unexpected night shift, might increase the incidence of sexual harassment and if unexpected night shift duties might generate familial problems at home. Other areas that were explored were job satisfaction, motivation and job mobility for policewomen.