Yesterday we celebrated Malta’s 59th birthday as an independent nation. Or is our nation older than that? There is a case that could be made that independent Malta is actually 223 years old. Today we explore a remarkable chapter in our history. A story of a tiny island that dared to defy a mighty empire....
Category: Articles
Malta hosts USA-China diplomats for talks ahead of possible Biden-Xi summit
This weekend, Malta once again stood at the crossroads of diplomacy, playing host to critical talks between Jake Sullivan, the United States national security advisor to President Joe Biden, and Wang Yi, the People’s Republic of China Foreign Minister. As described by the White House, these dialogues were a concerted effort to “ease tensions between...
The roles of women and children during the Great Siege of 1565
Diving deep into Malta’s rich tapestry of history, one cannot help but be enthralled by tales of valiant knights and iconic figures such as Toni Bajada, renowned for his masterful espionage during the Great Siege of 1565. These tales, as gripping as they are, sometimes eclipse the narratives of numerous unsung heroes, particularly the roles...
A history of the Gozo Channel
The story of the Gozo Channel linking Malta and Gozo is a testament to the enduring connectivity between these two Mediterranean islands. Spanning centuries, the history of this service is marked by evolution, challenges, and a commitment to facilitating travel and trade. 1241: Early Beginnings From the 13th century, the waters between Malta and Gozo...
The Reasons for Malta’s waste challenges
As Malta’s streets increasingly bear the complexities of waste management, fingers point in myriad directions. While some squarely blame governmental policies, others cast a critical eye on the citizens themselves for Malta’s waste challenges. In collaboration with Żibel, a leading local NGO, we delve into the intricacies of waste management on this idyllic island, exploring...
The Transgender Medicine Divide: Europe and the US Take Different Paths
The debate on transgender medicine in youth care approaches is growing more pronounced, with Europe and the US showcasing contrasting viewpoints. While the US is progressively embracing comprehensive gender affirmation, many European nations are leaning towards a more conservative stance, emphasizing the importance of psychotherapy and minimal medical interventions. Differing Perspectives and Research Gaps European...
The forgotten convoys that kept Malta alive.
In the annals of World War II, the Santa Marija Convoy – or Operation Pedestal for the enthusiasts – shines as a beacon of Malta’s resilience. Yet, before this famed mission, several other convoys wrote their own tales of courage in the Mediterranean waters. The Mediterranean became a hotbed of conflict during WWII, with Malta,...
Malta’s Power Cuts Explained: A Glimpse into Europe’s Energy Challenge
Amid “Malta’s Power Cuts”, the broader European region is also dealing with an electricity crunch. Malta, much like its continental neighbors, faces significant power shortages, particularly during the intense summer heat. As residents flock to the solace of air-conditioned havens, the electric grids are under immense strain, affecting both electricity generation and its distribution. Deciphering...
Citizenship by Merit Debate in Malta: Sports Integrity and Cultural Tie
In the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta finds itself at the epicenter of a debate: Can “citizenship by merit” for athletes coexist with the integrity of sports competitions? The very essence of representing a nation on a global stage hinges on an authentic bond to that land Genuine Connection vs. Competitive Edge When passports are...
The Labour South & Nationalist North explained
Eddie Fenech Adami’s ‘Tal-Barrani’ meeting (1986) is emblematic of Malta’s division along what appears to be a Labour south and a Nationalist north. Understanding how the voters from the North and South became tied to the two parties, and their migration patterns across the island, is key to understanding these local political allegiances.