Malta

Though Malta, with a population of just over 450,000, is the smallest member state of the European Union, its media system has developed a number of unique characteristics that distinguish it from that of the other member states. The development of print and broadcasting media under the influence of political parties is just one distinguishing characteristic. This hegemony is being challenged by the commercialization of the media as well as by the rapid spread of new media, particularly social networks. This entry provides an overview of both traditional and new media in Malta, exploring how the roles of organizations (i.e., political parties, the Catholic Church, trade unions) and commercialization have evolved and how technology is changing the nature of journalism and enhancing the connectedness of ...