A recent study commissioned by the National Commission for the Promotion of Equality (NCPE) highlights significant gender disparities in childcare responsibilities in Malta. The research, titled ‘Perceptions and Attitudes of Women and Men in Malta towards Work-Life Balance: With a Specific Focus on Family Size’, reveals that while nearly all participants agreed on equal sharing of childcare duties, only 1% of men reported taking the lead. Almost 47% of women stated they perform the majority of childcare tasks.

The findings are particularly concerning given Malta’s lowest fertility rate in the European Union. Nearly twice as many women (46.1%) as men (24.6%) reported that unequal family responsibilities influenced their decision to have children, exacerbating the fertility issue.

During a conference presenting the findings, Parliamentary Secretary  Rebecca Buttigieg discussed government efforts to support families, including free childcare and paid carers’ leave. Shadow Minister Graziella Attard Previ stressed the need for stronger family leave policies.

NCPE Commissioner Ms. Renee Laiviera called for greater shared responsibility among men and women in family duties, while Prof. Anna Borg emphasized the impact of work-family conflict on fertility decisions. The NCPE will continue to integrate these insights into future policy initiatives.

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The exhibition “Figure in Rods” by the late Maltese artist Ray Pitrè is now part of the permanent collection at the Malta International Contemporary Art Space (MICAS). 

Owen Bonnici, the Minister for National Heritage, the Arts, and Local Government, inaugurated this first-ever exhibition by a Maltese artist at MICAS. The exhibition, featuring Pitrè’s final artwork, was held in the presence of the artist’s family. Ray Pitrè, who passed away at the end of 2024, is remembered for his unique artistic identity, which he developed since the 1960s. His work often explored diverse expressions and materials, particularly those discarded by society. 

Minister Bonnici highlighted the significance of this moment in Malta’s cultural journey. He emphasized how Pitrè’s final piece, “Figure in Rods,” exemplifies innovation and artistic excellence, deserving of international recognition. The exhibition is a testament to the continued effort to elevate Maltese art globally, particularly through MICAS, a new museum dedicated to contemporary art. 

Phyllis Muscat, MICAS’ Executive Chairperson, expressed pride in preserving Pitrè’s legacy, stating that the exhibition helps introduce Maltese contemporary art to the world while fostering international artistic dialogue. The event also marked an important step in MICAS’s ambitious program to support Maltese artists and provide them with global platforms. 

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