The impact of the LEADER initiative on traditional non-governmental organisations in Malta

Abstract

Malta hosts a considerable number of diverse NGOs, of which many are traditional and have a complex link with culture. The LEADER initiative, which denotes ‘Community-Led Local Development,’ is a system of EU funding which allows for an approach that differs from other funding methods through the creation of a new system. During the budgetary period 2007-2013 (2015), many traditional NGOs have succeeded in gaining additional funding for different projects and this research assesses its impact on these organisations. It determines if there is a relationship between LEADER and participation in such organisations, the terms which make up a successful application and the role of traditional NGOS in preserving cultural customs.

Being the first research of its kind, this exploration includes two interviews to bolster its analysis. The first was carried out with traditional NGOs which benefitted from this initiative and aims to take note of the NGOs point of view which is not found on any published material. The second interview was conducted with the Head of Funding at MEUSAC and helps this research to include information on the application process and the preconditions that are a must for these NGOs to apply successfully. These interviews are also supplemented by academic publications, reports and books published by the Government, the EU and NGOs.

The LEADER Initiative, in its innovative configuration has succeeded in leaving a positive effect on these organisations which could be improved further in the next budgetary period. Furthermore, the analysis of the replies received during the interviews illustrated that it would be more beneficial to prioritise projects that would benefit fewer people more directly. Whilst there are no set terms that could be identified which would secure a successful application, two criteria emerge which are very important. This study ends with the analysis of the traditional NGOs’ role in preserving cultural traditions and the contribution this funding gives to this aim.