In our complex world, understanding the signs of suicidal thoughts is vital for everyone, from friends and family to professionals. Recognizing these indicators can be the difference between life and death, offering a lifeline to those in the shadows of despair. In this guide, we’ll delve deep into the essential signs to watch out for, empowering you to be a...
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 medical professionals have expressed reservations...
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, Britain, and the US (alongside...
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 the Electric Grid Essentially, Malta’s...
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 handed out like trophies to...
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.
Mintoff and the chocolate factory
Understanding the impact of protectionism on a nation’s economic landscape is key to global economics. This was palpably evident in 1970s Malta under the leadership of Dom Mintoff. As a strategic embodiment of protectionism, the Maltese government introduced dramatic measures to bolster local industries, reducing foreign goods dependency. Among these measures, the most contentious was the chocolate ban. Malta’s Economic...
Clyde Marx? Was the budget as socialist as he described?
The 2023 budget strengthens the welfare state with 60% of the measures listed in the speech could be considered “socialist”. However, this form of social protection will have challenges in the future such as ageing population which will require a rethink of the system. In the post-Muscat era, the Labour Party is actively trying to re-associate itself with its socialist...
A reasonable budget amidst a global energy crisis
Amid the economic turmoil and geopolitical tensions across Europe, Finance Minister Caruana unveiled the government’s budget for 2023. Broadly speaking, the budget is similar to recent ones presented by the Labour government. A common narrative of new taxes and an increase in a number of benefits to curb the effects of looming crises, as well as robust one-off measures to...
The reasons behind the “INTERDETT”
What were the reasons behind the Interdett and the “war” between the Church and the Labour Party? A war that shed no blood but left everlasting wounds, the interdiction (l-interdett) has left a lasting mark on Malta. It’s 1961. The Catholic Church is led by Pope John XXIII, known as ‘The Good Pope’ and eventually declared a saint. Under his...