Welfare regimes : exploring the Maltese social policy model

Abstract

This dissertation is about the exploration of the traits of the Maltese welfare state in comparison to the mainstream welfare regimes. Many studies have taken place to determine the various characteristics of several welfare regimes which capitalist countries comprise in relation to their welfare state. Furthermore, the three main welfare regimes established by these studies are the Conservative, Liberal and Social Democratic; and eventually the Southern European welfare state. This study deduces that Malta has no clear-cut traits that replicate one particular model of welfare. Moreover, Malta has a hybrid system of welfare as a result of certain factors such as Malta's colonial history, the country's geographical location, the importance of the Church, EU membership; among others.