Alain Blondy’s recent post on social media has sparked a conversation about Malta’s population growth, drawing attention to a 1912 record of the Maltese islands’ population. The record, written in French, lists various Maltese localities alongside their respective populations, shedding light on historical demographics.

Notably, localities near waterfronts emerged as the most populated, attributed to the abundance of job opportunities in shipyards and marinas. Residents often chose to live close to their workplaces, contributing to the bustling communities along the coast.

However, the record also revealed missing localities, raising questions about the completeness of historical data. According to the report, the total civilian population across Malta and Gozo in 1912 was 184,742, inclusive of 1,850 English and 2,393 foreigners.

Fast forward to 21st century, Malta’s population surged to 519,562, more than doubling over a century and experiencing significant growth in the past decade. The latest census conducted by the National Statistics Office highlighted the increasing presence of foreigners, with over one in five residents being non-Maltese. In 2021, 115,449 non-Maltese individuals called Malta home, marking a substantial increase since 2011.

The census data revealed a significant influx of immigrants, with 14,822 persons immigrating to Malta in 2020, more than triple the figure reported in 2011. A majority of these immigrants hailed from non-EU countries, contributing to the diversification of Malta’s population.

Despite its small size, Malta remains the most densely populated country in the EU, with 1,649 residents per square kilometer. Interestingly, the census also noted a shift in gender demographics, with more males than females recorded for the first time in Malta’s history.

The overpopulation issue has become a topic of concern, with many attributing it to the influx of foreigners. Critics argue that Malta’s infrastructure struggles to cope with the increased demand, impacting various aspects of daily life, including traffic congestion and waste management.

As Malta navigates the challenges of rapid population growth, discussions surrounding sustainable development and urban planning are gaining traction, aiming to address the needs of both residents and newcomers while preserving Malta’s cultural identity and natural environment.

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