Maltese youth in mixed marriages

Abstract

This research project is an attempt to analyse the situation in Malta of young Maltese persons married to foreigners. It seeks to evaluate the issues of how being in a mixed marriage may effect the relationship of the couple with their respective families and the relationship between the couple itself. It also explores the problems that the foreign spouse may find living in Malta, on their job and with other Maltese young people in general. In this research, the couples give their advice based on their personal experiences to other young Maltese persons who intend entering a mixed marriage. Fifteen couples, with one Maltese and one foreign spouse, were interviewed during the months of October' 96 - March' 97. The sample, although random, has been chosen to cover eleven different nationalities and six different religions. The age of the Maltese spouse varied between 23-36. The interviews took place in the couples' homes or in a coffee bar according to their wishes. Eight of interviews were held with both spouses present and seven with just the Maltese spouse. Once reported, these interviews were sent to the couples and returned on approval. On conclusion of the project, it was found that, in general, the majority of the foreign spouses interviewed are very content to be in Malta and do not find any major problems living here. Their relationship with the Maltese family and friends is generally also good. From this research, it can also be concluded that a mixed marriage does entail careful planning and preparation especially if it involves marrying someone of a different culture and religion.