The facilitations and constraints faced by members of the Arab community when attempting cultural integration in Malta

Abstract

Members of the Arab community in Malta find themselves in between two different cultures, each with variations in values, norms, and behaviours to be negotiated in the unique local environment. This study explores how the interaction of these factors and the meanings attributed brings about variations in perceived aids and obstacles, and how these impinge on their lives and wellbeing. To capture the complexity of these personal experiences, semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with six participants who were residing in Malta, identified as Arab, and originated from an Arab country. The findings of this research enabled the formation of four major themes (family, religion, intercultural context, and negative experiences) influencing cultural integration differentially depending on complex interplay within the individual and the contexts they exist in. Results signify that while members of the Arab community in Malta may be at risk of maladjustment because of their exposure to discrimination and discrepancies with Maltese culture, internal and external resources may counterbalance some of the deleterious effects of these limitations and permit them to thrive.