The Malta Sociological Association acknowledges the National Alcohol Policy. The MSA recommends that a structured Social Impact Assessment (SIA) framework is built into its implementation. SIA is a process for identifying, analysing, and monitoring the social consequences of policies, programmes, or projects, ensuring that decision-making accounts for how interventions affect individuals, families, communities, and social structures. It combines quantitative indicators with qualitative insights and participatory engagement to track both intended benefits and unintended consequences over time.
While the proposed monitoring mechanisms in the Policy emphasise consumption and health indicators, equal attention should be given to the social dimensions of alcohol-related harm. These include the effects of alcohol use on family dynamics, such as domestic violence and child neglect, on youth outcomes like absenteeism and early-age drinking, on workplace productivity and safety, and on community life. To this end, the MSA also advises the inclusion of stakeholder engagement, including local councils, youth organisations, and social services amongst others, ensuring that communities and affected sectors are directly involved in reviewing social outcomes and recommending adjustments.
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