Analysis of the effects of the National Archives Act 2005 on the Maltese government’s records management

Abstract

A considerably long time has passed since the publication of the National Archives Act of 2005 and it is within reason to ask to what extent has this Act been adhered to, particularly within the Maltese Government’s Public Administration? A corollary question would inquire whether adherence to this Act has improved the efficiency and effectiveness of our public records management systems. This long essay aims to discuss these issues. Records are evidence and information gathered and kept by an organization, enabling it to function properly, besides supporting its accountability. Keeping records is a challenging task since records need to be managed and taken care of from their creation till their disposal or archival disposition. This study examines the present situation of the records’ management in the Maltese Government’s Public Administration and discusses the way forward to implement the National Archives Act, ensuring the best practice of records keeping in our Public Administration.