Parliamentary Secretary For Equality And Reforms, Rebecca Buttigieg Leads Second Public Chat On Social Media Impact

Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms, Rebecca Buttigieg, has led the second public discussion on social media and its effects on society.

Participants shared their experiences and worries about how social media affects them directly, as well as its impact on their children and grandchildren, who are growing up in an environment where digital presence is constant and dominant.

This discussion is part of a series of meetings organised in preparation for a national conference taking place next September. The conference aims to develop a national policy that addresses both the positive uses of social media and the ways certain actors exploit it to deceive, influence, and manipulate users, with serious consequences for individuals and democratic institutions.

Parliamentary Secretary Rebecca Buttigieg emphasised, “Before the Government introduces new laws, we are listening carefully to better understand society’s concerns and needs. During this discussion, many important topics were raised. The world we grew up in is very different from the one young people face today and it will keep changing as technology advances.”

Many said technology creates an emotional and communication divide, often leaving them feeling excluded from their grandchildren’s lives.

Rebecca Buttigieg  added, “Social media has a strong influence on every aspect of our lives. As adults, and especially as a Government, we must look ahead and provide the next generation with all the tools and information they need to be informed and safe. At the same time, we must protect them from the dangers present on these platforms.”

This discussion is also part of the wider Vision Malta 2050 initiative, which aims to shape a sustainable and inclusive future for the country, including in the digital, social, and educational fields. The consultation period for Vision Malta 2050 remains open until 9 September 2025, and comments can be submitted via the website envision2050.gov.mt.

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