My diversity : action research : age, gender & diversity perspectives in the Maltese refugee context

Abstract

Various entities in Malta have for some time undertaken efforts to improve the protection environment for refugees and other persons of concern, including through promoting an age, gender and diversity (AGD) sensitive approach. Such activities have included advocacy, counselling, legal advice, service provision, training, women’s empowerment, detention monitoring, as well as actions to address problems relating to sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI), human trafficking and a range of integration-related issues. The overall aim of the AGD project in Malta was to explore, understand, and outline specific protection needs of persons of concern, to review how these are currently being addressed by service providers, to identify existing gaps in this regard, and to explore how the relevant response and support capacities can be further enhanced. This aim was pursued through Participatory Action Research, wherein persons of concern and partner agencies took an active role in the research process, engaging in community-based analysis that included the design and implementation of research and support strategies. The data collection included the use of individual interviews, focus groups, broader stakeholder workshops, as well as targeted pilot activities developed on the basis of UNHCR’s Age, Gender and Diversity approach. Analysis of findings was ongoing throughout the research process, also with involvement by persons of concern.