Updated 1240
Malta’s median age is decreasing, bucking EU trend: Malta’s median age has declined over the past decade, unlike most EU countries. In 2024, it stood at 39.8, down from 40.5 in 2014. Meanwhile, the EU median age rose from 42.5 to 44.7. Only Germany also recorded a decline. Malta had the third-lowest median age in the EU, after Ireland (39.4) and Luxembourg (39.7), while Italy had the highest (48.7). Despite an ageing population, Malta’s old-age dependency ratio rose modestly from 26.0% in 2014 to 27.1% in 2024, compared to the EU’s increase from 29% (2015) to 33.9% (2024). A Council of Europe report warns that by 2050, Europe’s ratio may reach 56.7%, straining public services. It highlights migration as a potential solution to labour shortages. (Times of MAlta)
Legalising cannabis did not make it more attractive to drug-free youth – study: A study found that most young people who have never used drugs would not be tempted to do so, even after the legalisation of substances like cannabis. Surveying 400 non-drug users aged 18 to 30, 92% were confident they would remain drug-free. Led by Andrew Azzopardi in collaboration with Caritas Malta, the research focused on why young people avoid drugs. Key deterrents included health concerns (98%), impact on concentration (95%), lack of curiosity (77%), and financial cost (61%). Education played a role, with 77% crediting awareness campaigns. Strong social support was also crucial, with 96% feeling family support helped them stay drug-free. Azzopardi emphasised the need for engaging alternatives, such as sports and travel, to prevent drug use. (The Malta Independent)
President Myriam Spiteri Debono to address Oxford Union debate in the UK: President Myriam Spiteri Debono will address a debate at the Oxford Union in the UK on Tuesday, accompanied by her husband, Antony Spiteri Debono. The Oxford Union debate is a prestigious platform hosting global leaders and intellectuals to discuss key contemporary issues. Beyond the debate, Spiteri Debono will hold meetings focused on the Malta Community Chest Fund’s support for Maltese patients receiving medical treatment in London. Officials from the Office of the President and the Malta Community Chest Fund will also attend.
Morning Briefing
Pandemic linked with mental health issues in kids
Psychologists in Malta are linking behavioural and mental health issues in schoolchildren to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Schools closed in March 2020 as a containment measure, forcing students and educators to adapt to remote learning. While schools reopened seven months later with restrictions, the effects of social isolation were still felt. Anthea D’Amico, a counsellor and lecturer at the University of Malta, highlighted concerns about children whose early years were shaped by the pandemic. She noted that limited opportunities for social interaction and physical activities disrupted their emotional and sensory development. D’Amico also pointed out that heightened societal anxiety, financial hardships, and family tensions contributed to an unstable environment for children. However, she emphasised that children are resilient, and the long-term effects remain to be seen. (Times of Malta)
Malta has role to play in supporting Ukraine
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola has urged Malta to play its part in supporting Ukraine, stressing that the country cannot turn a blind eye to the ongoing crisis. Following her visit to Washington D.C., she called for unity and stronger transatlantic cooperation, emphasising that Malta has a role to play. “Malta too can play a part, it must play a part, we should not bury our heads in the sand,” she stated. Metsola also underscored the importance of increased European defence spending and maintaining unwavering support for Ukraine’s independence and sovereignty. She stressed that backing Ukraine is not an act of charity but a necessity for European security and stability. (Maltatoday)
No need to cap heritage sites visitors
Culture Minister Owen Bonnici sees no need to cap visitor numbers at Malta’s heritage sites, arguing that increased tourism supports heritage conservation. In an interview, he acknowledged that some sites, like the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, already have entry limits but said broader restrictions may not be necessary. “The more tourists visit our museums, the more funds we have to reinvest in their upkeep and protection,” he said, stressing the importance of preserving heritage. He pointed to strategies like spreading events across multiple locations, such as New Year’s Eve celebrations in both Valletta and Cottonera, to manage crowds effectively. Bonnici added that while crowd control measures can be applied intelligently, the Ministry’s experts have not recommended imposing visitor caps at sites like Ġgantija or Mnajdra.
