Maltese Citizens Concerned Over Security Amid Global Tensions A recent Flash Eurobarometer survey shows that 60% of people in Malta believe the country faces security threats due to global instability, slightly below the EU average of 68%. Despite this, only 48% feel personally at risk, reflecting a broader European trend. The survey, conducted in early 2026, comes amid tensions in Ukraine, the Middle East, Venezuela, and Greenland. Maltese respondents expressed high trust in the EU’s role in strengthening defence, with 60% supporting EU-led security measures. Views on defence investment were mixed, with around 40% satisfied with current spending. The survey also highlighted Malta’s interest in space programmes, with 23% citing security and defence as a priority, and over half recognising their economic importance. (Times of Malta)
PM Abela Calls for EU Economic Resilience Prime Minister Robert Abela urged EU leaders to strengthen the single market amid rapid geopolitical and geoeconomic shifts. Speaking at an informal meeting in Belgium hosted by European Council President António Costa, Abela stressed that small open economies like Malta are particularly vulnerable to external pressures. He called for diversifying trade partnerships to reduce strategic dependencies in sectors such as energy and raw materials, while safeguarding strategic industries from unfair competition. Abela also highlighted the need for climate policies that balance environmental action with economic competitiveness. Strengthening the EU internal market, he said, would boost investment, exports, and jobs, particularly for SMEs, ensuring sustainable growth without resorting to austerity. (Maltatoday)
ADPD Warns Young People Priced Out of Housing ADPD–The Green Party has criticised Malta’s property market, highlighting soaring prices, rampant land speculation, and investment-driven development that make home ownership increasingly unaffordable for young people. Central Bank data shows median loans for 18–25-year-olds rose from €162,900 in 2021 to €216,000 in 2024, while 25–35-year-olds now borrow around €220,400. ADPD warned that weak planning oversight and schemes favouring absentee investors are transforming homes into commodities, undermining sustainable development and local communities. Chairperson Sandra Gauci called for strong rent regulation, curbs on speculative buying, and prioritisation of genuinely affordable housing for Maltese residents. The party emphasised that decent housing is a right, not an investment opportunity, urging government action to secure a future for younger generations. (The Malta Independent)
