Minister for Social and Affordable Housing, Roderick Galdes, has announced a new digitisation initiative by the Housing Authority aimed at reducing bureaucracy and improving operational efficiency. The project, which has been gradually rolled out, is designed to streamline processes, enabling faster and more efficient handling of housing schemes.

“The results of this transformation are already visible,” said Minister Galdes. “While digitising services is not a quick or simple task, it is crucial for enhancing the experience of both our beneficiaries and staff.” The Minister highlighted the positive impact on the Housing Authority’s workers, helping them manage the growing demand for housing schemes.

The first fully digitised scheme is the Rent Benefit program, where 2,900 families are now receiving subsidies more easily. “This digitization is directly improving the lives of many families,” Galdes noted, emphasizing the Authority’s commitment to expanding digital services to reach even more people faster.

Matthew Zerafa, the Chief Executive of the Housing Authority, added that technology is revolutionizing the way the Authority communicates and delivers services, ensuring a more transparent and efficient experience for all beneficiaries.

#MaltaDaily

One in five people in Malta believe women are partly to blame for sexual violence if they are drunk or high, a Eurobarometer survey has revealed. Disturbingly, 10% think women who turn down sexual advances are just “playing hard to get.”

The study, which involved 537 participants, also highlights scepticism about rape claims, with a third saying women often exaggerate or fabricate them. This places Malta second only to Bulgaria in this view.

Online, safety for women remains precarious. A quarter of respondents say women should expect sexist comments when sharing opinions on social media, while over half blame women for leaked nudes if they shared the photos with someone.

When it comes to domestic violence, most respondents disapprove of physical abuse, with 96% condemning occasional slapping and 90% opposing non-consensual sex in relationships. However, a third find it acceptable for a man to control his partner’s finances under some circumstances.

Encouragingly, nearly 90% reject catcalling or ogling, the highest in Europe. Yet, two-thirds acknowledge that domestic violence against women is common, while a third recognise it also affects men.

The findings expose both progress and persistent societal issues, offering a stark reminder of the need for greater awareness and action.

#MaltaDaily