The social impacts of a fixed link between Malta and Gozo

Abstract

This dissertation focuses on the social impacts of a fixed link between Malta and Gozo. Much has been discussed about the economic and environmental impacts of a fixed link, but little has been said about the social impacts that may arise if a tunnel is constructed between the two islands. The purpose of this quantitative study is to explore the presumed negative and positive social impacts of such a link according to Maltese, Gozitans and tourists. For this research, data was gathered by the author by means of a questionnaire which was distributed on the Gozo Channel ferries as well as at its terminals in Malta and Gozo at different times of the day and week during the month of March 2018. This study focuses more on the Maltese and Gozitan population; therefore, the sample of Maltese and Gozitan respondents was higher than that of tourists. The questions presented in the questionnaire were constructed in such a way that, even if respondents might not know about the presumed social impacts of a fixed link between the two islands, they could still be answered. Most importantly, the research itself aims to test a number of hypotheses: would Gozitans be more likely to approve such a fixed link than the Maltese? Are young Gozitans more likely to support the fixed link because of its perceived positive benefits? Would this socio-economic change be perceived as overall positive or negative?