Over 1,600 still waiting for social housing in Malta as demand persists
Malta’s social housing waiting list fluctuated over the last decade, with 1,674 applicants as of November 2024, down from a 2017 peak of 3,288. This decline reflects government measures like new housing units and subsidies but highlights persistent challenges as demand rises again due to soaring property prices and pandemic-related income instability. A 2021 study revealed that 75% of applicants are women, mostly single parents, earning an average of €755 monthly, with many citing child-rearing or health issues as barriers to employment. Rising housing costs—average rents exceeding €250 and property prices up 6.8% in 2024—worsen affordability issues. Overcrowding and poor living conditions remain critical concerns, especially for vulnerable and migrant groups.
Malta recorded highest increase in greenhouse gas emissions in EU
Malta has recorded the EU’s highest increase in greenhouse gas emissions from transport, buildings, agriculture, small industry, and waste, rising over 30% since 2005. This far exceeds the EU average, with Cyprus and Bulgaria showing the next highest increases at 5%. Malta is one of 10 countries breaching 2023 emissions limits, despite a target to cut emissions by 20% from 2005 levels. The Opposition calls for immediate reforms, including an audit of climate policies, targeted investments in emission reductions, and regular public progress updates to address Malta’s climate challenges effectively.
Social media use should be regulated – junior minister
Equality and Reforms Junior Minister Rebecca Buttigieg has stressed the urgent need to regulate social media, citing its profound societal impacts. Writing in Times of Malta, she called for reforms based on national survey data showing high social media usage in Malta and pointed to international efforts, such as Australia’s ban on social media for under-16s and EU-wide inquiries into its effects. Buttigieg raised concerns about cyberbullying, addiction, harmful algorithms, fake news, and damaging content, particularly for youth. While acknowledging social media’s benefits, she emphasised evidence-based debates to craft thoughtful reforms. Other Maltese politicians, including Labour MEPs Alex Agius Saliba and Thomas Bajada, have also proposed measures, such as banning addictive features and implementing mandatory profile verification.
