newsare.net
The opuntia ficus-indica may have originated several time zones away, yet the prickly pear, an alien species, found itself pasted on the emblem of Malta for over a decade. To the reckless passer-by, the cactus is a threat. For the wiser rambler, it can be a sCivil society: flourishing opuntia? - Benjamin Dalli
The opuntia ficus-indica may have originated several time zones away, yet the prickly pear, an alien species, found itself pasted on the emblem of Malta for over a decade. To the reckless passer-by, the cactus is a threat. For the wiser rambler, it can be a summertime treat. Civil society was introduced to Malta formally shortly after Independence. Today, hundreds of voluntary organisations are registered with the commissioner. It is dubious whether this indicates that civil society has flourished akin to our beloved flora. Malta has been doing pretty well for itself, at least prima facie. The Economist Intelligence Unit ranks Malta among the world’s healthiest democracies – quite a feat for a country of its age, size and history. Century after century, the Maltese people were subjugated to some other ruler; none was known for their democratic credentials – bar Britain. Yet among full democracies, Malta trails behind in political participation. The factors assessed included adult literacy, voter turnout and party political membership, arguably the three strongest points keeping Malta afloat in the area. Evidently, that isn’t enough. Politics is still considered a taboo across... Read more