Public Consultation Feedback - Regenerating White Rocks

The Malta Sociological Association (MSA) notes the public consultation on the development of new national parks, including the proposed transformation of White Rocks into a green public space for recreation and community use. The MSA strongly recommends the incorporation of Social Impact Assessment (SIA) in the planning and management of these spaces.

The International Association for Impact Assessment defines Social Impact Assessment as “the processes of analysing, monitoring and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both positive and negative, of planned interventions and any social change processes invoked by those interventions”. The MSA emphasises that SIA should be an ongoing and participatory process, engaging local communities and diverse user groups over time. Embedding SIA in the development of national parks such as White Rocks would help ensure that these spaces are inclusive, accessible, and socially responsive in the long term.

Public Consultation Feedback: Realignment of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy

The Malta Sociological Association (MSA) notes the public consultation on the Realignment of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which seeks to reposition Malta’s approach to AI by placing inclusivity and sustainability at its core. The MSA welcomes the explicit move away from a technology-first approach and the emphasis placed on ethical principles, public trust, and human oversight. In this context, the MSA strongly recommends the systematic incorporation of Social Impact Assessment (SIA) as a core component of the strategy’s design, implementation, and ongoing monitoring.

The International Association for Impact Assessment defines Social Impact Assessment as “the processes of analysing, monitoring and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both positi
ve and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans, projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions”. Artificial intelligence strategies constitute profound social interventions that may reshape labour markets, public services, governance practices, social inequalities, and everyday decision-making. While AI presents significant opportunities for innovation and efficiency, it also raises critical questions related to bias and discrimination, accountability, transparency, trust, data governance, and the distribution of risks and benefits across different social groups.

An SIA is an interdisciplinary process, and should employ various methods, both quantitative and qualitative. Social impact assessments should not be one-off exercises, but ongoing processes which engage with various stakeholders and which report back so as to ensure effective policy processes. Embedding SIA within the National AI Strategy would strengthen its foundational principles, support adaptive governance, and help ensure that AI-driven innovation in Malta contributes to socially inclusive, equitable, and sustainable outcomes over time.

MSA's feedback on Social Media Reform

The MSA has participated in the Consultation on Social Media Reform. MSA welcomes the recognition of both the social value and the significant challenges associated with social media platforms, particularly concerning vulnerable groups such as children and young people. In this context, the MSA strongly recommends the systematic incorporation of Social Impact Assessment (SIA) in the development, implementation, and evaluation of any regulatory or policy reforms concerning social media use and governance.

The International Association for Impact Assessment defines Social Impact Assessment as “the processes of analysing, monitoring and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both positive and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans, projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions”. Social Impact Assessment is an interdisciplinary process that draws on both quantitative and qualitative methods, and should be embedded as an ongoing and participatory practice, rather than a one-off exercise. The MSA emphasises the importance of engaging a wide range of stakeholders, including young people themselves, caregivers, educators, mental health professionals, and civil society organisations, in order to better understand how platform design, algorithmic systems, and regulatory measures shape social behaviour. Particular attention should be paid to differentiated impacts across social groups, including children, adolescents, parents, educators, and those already experiencing forms of social or psychological vulnerability. Incorporating SIA within social media reform would enhance policy responsiveness, support evidence-informed regulation, and contribute to more socially attuned, proportionate, and effective governance of digital platforms in Malta.

The MSA's Contribution to the Public Consultation on the Update to Malta's Marine Strategy

The Malta Sociological Association (MSA) notes the public consultation on the update to Malta’s marine strategy, pursuant to the Marine Strategy Framework Directive 2008/56/EC (MSFD). The MSA strongly recommends incorporating social impact assessments to evaluate and monitor the relationship between the marine environment and social life, including the social impact on fisheries, coastal communities, tourism, and leisure activities, among others.

The International Association for Impact Assessment defines SIA as being “the processes of analysing, monitoring and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both positive and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans, projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions”. An SIA is an interdisciplinary process, and should employ various methods, both quantitative and qualitative. Social impact assessments should not be one-off exercises, but ongoing processes which engage with various stakeholders and report back so as to ensure effective policy processes.

MSA's Position to the Public Consultation on the Holistic Planning Reform

 The Malta Sociological Association (MSA) notes the public consultation on the holistic planning reform. The MSA appeals for the incorporation of social impact assessments in the reform. The International Association for Impact Assessment defines SIA as being “the processes of analysing, monitoring and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both positive and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans, projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions”. An SIA is an interdisciplinary process, and should employ various methods, both quantitative and qualitative. Social impact assessments should not
be one-off exercises, but ongoing processes which engage with various stakeholders and which report back so as to ensure effective policy processes.

MSA's Contribution to the Public Consultation for Malta Vision 2050

 The Malta Sociological Association (MSA) notes the public consultation on the Malta Vision 2050. The MSA strongly recommends the mainstreaming and adoption of social impact assessments as part of the Vision 2050. The International Association for Impact Assessment defines SIA as being “the processes of analysing, monitoring and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both positive and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans, projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions”. An SIA is an interdisciplinary process, and should employ various methods, both quantitative and qualitative. Social impact assessments should not be one-off exercises, but ongoing processes which engage with various stakeholders and which report back so as to ensure effective policy processes.

Public consultation Feedback - National Alcohol Policy

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.

MSA's Feedback to the Social Climate Fund Public Consultation

 The Malta Sociological Association (MSA) welcomes the opportunity to contribute to this consultation and supports the principle behind the Social Climate Fund, that of ensuring a just and inclusive transition to climate neutrality.

The SCF aims to provide targeted support to vulnerable individuals, households, and enterprises facing the greatest challenges during this transition by addressing the socia
l repercussions of the EU’s revised Emission Trading System (ETS). Given that the Fund is meant to achieve a social impact targeting vulnerable groups, the MSA recommends the adoption of an impact assessment rooted in the sociological tradition – a Social Impact Assessment (SIA). While the approach (based on the SMM model) outlined in Section 6 of the consultation document regarding impact assessment may offer useful economic insights, it assesses impact in strictly aggregated and macroeconomic terms. As such, it risks overlooking the complex social realities that shape how different groups experience climate-related measures, particularly those defined as vulnerable, which are the target group of this Fund.

We therefore strongly recommend the integration of a SIA alongside economic modelling. An SIA would allow for a deeper understanding of how the proposed measures affect people’s lives, particularly those vulnerable. It would also offer a framework to anticipate unintended consequences, enhance participatory planning, and improve the targeting and equity of social investments.

According to the International Association for Impact Assessment, SIA refers to “the processes of analysing, monitoring and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both positive and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans, projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions”. An SIA is an interdisciplinary process, and follows established social-scientific methods, both quantitative and qualitative. Social impact assessments should not be one-off exercises, but ongoing processes which engage with various stakeholders and report back so as to ensure effective policy processes.

A just transition requires attention to heterogeneous social impact, lived experience, social cohesion, and structural inequality. We urge the inclusion of social impact monitoring throughout the implementation period to ensure inclusivity.

The MSA has presented its views as part of the Public Consultation on Assisted Voluntary Euthanasia.

The Malta Sociological Association (MSA) submitted its contribution to the Public Consultation on Assisted Voluntary Euthanasia:

Sociological research has long shown that end-of-life decisions are not made in a social vacuum, but are shaped by family relationships, religious beliefs, access to care, and trust in institutions. In this light, the MSA recommends incorporating a sociological lens to better understand how such policies impact not only individuals and families but also institutions, professional practices, and broader cultural values surrounding life, care, and death. This perspective also enables the examination of how inequalities in these areas may influence people’s choices and experiences, and raises important questions about how to ensure that decisions of this nature are truly voluntary and informed.

To this end, we urge that a structured Social Impact Assessment (SIA) be integrated into this policy process. An SIA can help identify how different social groups may be affected, ensure that safeguards are responsive to real-life contexts, and offer ongoing insight into how such legislation is experienced across society. Public debate must remain grounded in evidence, and informed by an understanding that moral decisions are shaped by social and cultural
conditions.

According to the International Association for Impact Assessment, SIA refers to “the processes of analysing, monitoring and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both positive and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans, projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions”. An SIA is an interdisciplinary process and follows established social-scientific methods, both quantitative and qualitative. Social impact assessments should not be one-off exercises, but ongoing processes which engage with various stakeholders, including sociologists, ethicists,
healthcare professionals, and affected communities, and which report back to ensure effective policy processes.

                                  

MSA's position on the "Review of the 2006 Local Plan Policies for Rural Settlement"

The Malta Sociological Association welcomes the Planning Authority’s efforts to update and clarify the policies governing rural settlements. 

The MSA emphasises the importance of systematically incorporating Social Impact Assessments (SIAs) into the planning and approval processes for developments in rural settlements. While environmental protection is rightly foregrounded, the social dimensions of rural development — including impacts on community life, social cohesion, heritage, accessibility, and demographic sustainability — deserve equal attention.

The International Association for Impact Assessment defines SIA as being “the processes of analysing, monitoring and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both positive and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans, projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions”. An SIA is an interdisciplinary process, and follows established social-scientific methods, both quantitative and qualitative. Social impact assessments should not be one-off exercises, but ongoing processes which engage with various stakeholders and which report back so as to ensure effective policy processes.

MSA's position on the "Partial Review of the Gozo and Comino Local Plan of 2006 for Ghajnsielem and Xewkija - Phase 2"

 The Malta Sociological Association (MSA) notes the public consultation for phase 2 of Partial Review of Gozo and Comino Local Plan. 

The MSA reiterates its proposal for the adoption of a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) that follows a comprehensive and scientific approach in conformity with the International Principles for Social Impact Assessment. The International Association for Impact Assessment defines SIA as being “the processes of analysing, monitoring and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both positive and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans, projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions”. An SIA is an interdisciplinary process, and follows established social-scientific methods, both quantitative and qualitative. Social impact assessments should not be one-off exercises, but ongoing processes which engage with various stakeholders and which report back so as to ensure effective policy processes.

MSA's position on the "National Volunteering Strategy 2025–2030"

The Malta Sociological Association (MSA) has submitted the following feedback as part of the public consultation on the "National Volunteering Strategy 2025-2030."

The Malta Sociological Association commends the development of the National Volunteering Strategy 2025–2030 and welcomes the opportunity to contribute. Below, we outline some recommendations to strengthen the strategic approach through evidence-based planning, social impact assessment, and conceptual clarity.

Data and Evidence-Based Planning

The strategy would benefit from a stronger commitment to research and data transparency. This includes:

• Ensuring regular, comprehensive research on the state of volunteering that informs strategic decisions and reflects sectoral needs.
• Making up-to-date data on Voluntary Organisations publicly accessible for research, policy, and sectoral planning. Data collection frameworks should be designed by qualified social scientists to ensure methodological robustness.
• In particular is the need for research to understand further the motivations that drive volunteers to engage and maintain their commitment. Formal recognition may indeed drive volunteers away from the sector, and therefore new ways of recognising and acknowledging the value of volunteering need to be factored in.

Social Impact Assessment

The strategy should adopt a dynamic and participatory approach to evaluation by establishing a continuous Social Impact Assessment (SIA) process that not only monitors outcomes but also enables ongoing adjustment of actions in response to changing social contexts. This SIA process should be embedded at the core of the review mechanism outlined in Section 8 (‘Implementation, Monitoring, and Review’, p. 39) and should be co-developed by both Voluntary Organisations (VOs) and the communities they serve. Doing so ensures that evaluation is grounded in lived experiences and enhances the long-term effectiveness of initiatives. A key feature of this approach should include mapping the logical pathways between activities, outcomes, and intended social impacts to maintain coherence between actions and strategic objectives — identifying assumptions, potential barriers, and necessary conditions for success. This mapping should be revisited and refined throughout the SIA process to ensure achievement of goals.

Terminology

Clear and consistent terminology is essential for a shared understanding across stakeholders:

• The strategy should avoid the general use of the term “NGOs” when referring specifically to Voluntary Organisations, as NGOs may include entities outside the voluntary sector.
• At one point (p. 27) the document mentions non-formal volunteering. If such discriminations are to be made at all, the document should clearly outline what it means when it refers to formal, non-formal and informal volunteering.

MSA's Position on the "Development Planning (Procedure for Applications and their Determination) Amendment Regulations

The Malta Sociological Association (MSA) notes the Planning Authority’s proposal to add a new development type in the development planning amendment regulations, covering onshore, offshore, and greenhouse-based renewable energy projects.

To this end, the MSA calls for the mainstreaming of Social Impact Assessments (SIAs) as an integral part of the planning and evaluation process, including specific energy projects and installations. The International Association for Impact Assessment defines SIA as “the processes of analysing, monitoring and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both positive and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans, projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions.” As an interdisciplinary, methodologically rigorous process grounded in the social sciences, SIA allows for a systematic understanding of how different communities, especially those situated n
ear or affected by projects such as renewable energy developments, experience, negotiate, and are impacted by such projects. This includes issues related to land use, visual and cultural landscapes, participation in benefit-sharing, and trust in institutions. Social impacts must be assessed and monitored as part of an ongoing, inclusive process that ensures transparency, responsiveness, and long-term social sustainability.

MSA Submits Feedback on EU’s Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) Regulation Public Consultation

The Malta Sociological Association (MSA) notes the public consultation on evaluating the Common Fisheries Policy (Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013). 

The MSA recommends that the evaluation and future revisions of the CFP Regulation integrate a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) as part of the policy process, following a comprehensive and scientific approach in line with the International Principles for Social Impact Assessment.

The International Association for Impact Assessment defines Social Impact Assessment as “the processes of analysing, monitoring and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both positive and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans, projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions”. An SIA is inherently interdisciplinary and relies on well-established social-scientific methods, both qualitative and quantitative.

Given that the CFP affects diverse coastal communities, labour markets, and household livelihoods, a structured SIA would provide critical insights into how policy impacts are experienced by different social groups. These assessments should not be one-off exercises but continuous processes that actively engage stakeholders and feed back into decision-making to ensure inclusive, adaptive, and effective policy implementation.

Therefore, the MSA encourages the embedding of a formal and participatory social impact assessment framework into the CFP, both for this evaluation and for future policy.

National Sexual Health Strategy - Sociologists' feedback

The Malta Sociological Association (MSA) has submitted the following feedback to the European Commission about the National Sexual Health Strategy 2025-2030:

The Malta Sociological Association (MSA) notes the public consultation for the National Sexual Health Strategy 2025-2030. The MSA proposes the adoption of a Social Impact Assessment (SIA), as part of this strategy, that follows a comprehensive and scientific approach in conformity with the International Principles for Social Impact Assessment. The International Association for Impact Assessment defines SIA as being “the processes of analysing, monitoring and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both positive and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans, projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions”. An SIA is an interdisciplinary process, and follows established social-scientific methods, both quantitative and qualitative. Social impact assessments should not be one-off exercises, but ongoing processes which engage with various stakeholders and which report back so as to ensure effective policy processes.

European Oceans Pact Initiative - Malta Sociologists' Feedback

The Malta Sociological Association (MSA) has submitted the following feedback to the European Commission about the European Oceans Pact Initiative:

The Malta Sociological Association (MSA) acknowledges the European Commission's European Oceans Pact initiative and welcomes its vision for a holistic approach to ocean management and policies affecting the EU's coastal communities. To this end, the MSA proposes the mainstreaming of Social Impact Assessments (SIAs), including its adoption within the European Oceans Pact initiative. The International Association for Impact Assessment defines SIA as being the processes of analysing, monitoring and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both positive and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans, projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions. An SIA is an interdisciplinary process, and follows established social-scientific methods, both quantitative and qualitative. Social impact assessments should not be one-off exercises, but ongoing processes which engage with various stakeholders and which report back so as to ensure effective policy processes.

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Sociologists' feedback on the Labour Migration Policy Consultation Document

In its official feedback to the Government's Labour Migration Policy consultation document, the Malta Sociological Association emphasised the need to to mainstream social impact assessments and to embed sociological research in the policy making process. This would advance evidence-based policy making.

The feedback submitted by the Malta Sociological Association to the Government states:

The Malta Sociological Association (MSA) welcomes the opportunity to provide feedback on the Labour Migration Policy consultation document. As an organisation committed to advancing sociological research and fostering evidence-based policymaking, we emphasise the necessity of integrating a robust social impact assessment (SIA) framework within the policy.

Mainstreaming Social Impact Assessments (SIA) in Labour Migration Policy

Labour migration has profound social, economic, and cultural implications for both migrants and host communities. While economic considerations often take centre stage in migration policymaking, it is equally critical to assess the broader social dimensions. To this end, we recommend that the policy framework explicitly mandates Social Impact Assessments (SIAs) as a standard practice throughout the policy cycle. 

This would ensure that:
- Policy formulation is informed by a comprehensive understanding of the social effects of labour migration on key areas such as community cohesion, housing, education, healthcare, and social integration.
- Implementation and monitoring include ongoing sociological research that tracks how migration policies impact both migrant workers and Maltese society over time.
- Adjustments and revisions to the policy are evidence-based, ensuring that unintended negative consequences—such as social fragmentation, exploitation, or marginalisation—are identified early and addressed effectively.

Embedding Sociological Research in Policy Design and Evaluation

To strengthen policy effectiveness and societal cohesion, MSA also advocates for a systematic incorporation of sociological research in labour migration policymaking. 

This includes:
- Pre-policy research: Conducting sociological studies to map existing migration trends, understand public attitudes, and assess sectoral labour needs beyond economic metrics.
- Continuous evaluation: Establishing research-driven mechanisms to monitor social integration, discrimination, workplace conditions, and the well-being of migrant communities.
- Community engagement: Ensuring that policy development involves consultations with diverse stakeholders, including civil society organisations, experts, migrant communities, and local residents, to promote a more inclusive and participatory approach.

Public Consultation: Strategy for Health-Enhancing Physical Activity (HEPA) 2025-30

The Malta Sociological Association submitted the following feedback to this public consultation: 

The Malta Sociological Association (MSA) notes the public consultation towards a Strategy for Health-Enhancing Physical Activity (HEPA) 2025-2030. It welcomes a broader consideration of physical activity drivers and dynamics, one that goes beyond matters of urban design and physical infrastructures but takes an all-encompassing view of the social dynamics of health-enhancing physical activity. In this light, the MSA proposes the adoption of a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) that follows a comprehensive and scientific approach in conformity with the International Principles for Social Impact Assessment. 

The International Association for Impact Assessment defines SIA as being “the processes of analysing, monitoring and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both positive and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans, projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions”. An SIA is an interdisciplinary process, and follows established social-scientific methods, both quantitative and qualitative. Social impact assessments should not be one-off exercises, but ongoing processes which engage with various stakeholders and which report back so as to ensure effective policy processes.

European Public Consultation: Digital Europe programme – interim evaluation

The Malta Sociological Association has submitted its feedback to this public consultation by the European Commission. To read MSA's comments, click here. 

Public Consultation: Malta’s Update to the National Energy and Climate Plan 2021-2030

Malta Sociological Association feedback to this public consultation: 

The Malta Sociological Association welcomes the public consultation on the "Malta’s Update to the National Energy and Climate Plan 2021-2030".

It notes that Malta’s final NECP update will present two scenarios 'With Existing Measures (WEM)' and 'With Planned Measures (WPM)' and that "[e]ach proposed measure will be/is being analysed from two key aspects: its investment needs and its abatement potential, allowing for the analysis of economic impacts and benefits of reducing GHG emissions along with the respective economic investment costs and operational cost/savings compared to a baseline. The lower the cost/benefit ratio, the more cost-effective the measure will be."

The MSA recommends that the analysis also include an assessment of the social impacts and benefits. This would go beyond 'social acceptability' and 'quality of life' as measured by linear quantitative metrics, but would take a more comprehensive approach which considers a wider range of potential impacts, both positive and negative, in line with the International Principles for Social Impact Assessment. Indeed, the International Association for Impact Assessment defines SIA as being “the processes of analysing, monitoring and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both positive and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans, projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions”. An SIA is an interdisciplinary process, and should employ various methods, both quantitative and qualitative. Social impact assessments should not be one-off exercises, but ongoing processes which engage with various stakeholders and which report back so as to ensure effective policy processes.

The MSA hence recommends a social impact assessment in line with the International Principles for Social Impact Assessment as part of the update to Malta's National Energy and Climate Plan 2021-2030.