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The Malta Sociological Association submitted the following feedback to this public consultation:
The Malta Sociological Association (MSA) notes the public consultation towards a Strategy for Health-Enhancing Physical Activity (HEPA) 2025-2030. It welcomes a broader consideration of physical activity drivers and dynamics, one that goes beyond matters of urban design and physical infrastructures but takes an all-encompassing view of the social dynamics of health-enhancing physical activity. In this light, the MSA proposes the adoption of a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) that follows a comprehensive and scientific approach in conformity with the International Principles for Social Impact Assessment.
The International Association for Impact Assessment defines SIA as being “the processes of analysing, monitoring and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both positive and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans, projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions”. An SIA is an interdisciplinary process, and follows established social-scientific methods, both quantitative and qualitative. Social impact assessments should not be one-off exercises, but ongoing processes which engage with various stakeholders and which report back so as to ensure effective policy processes.
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Valletta, 28th September – "I want to live close to the sea, with plenty of space and greenery close by." This was one of the many voices heard at the Malta Sociological Association’s (MSA) interactive stand, held in collaboration with the University of Malta during Science in the City, where children participated in designing their ideal village by the sea in Malta.
Participants, mostly children, were invited to construct their ideal coastal community using building models on a table stand. The flexible setup included models representing key community structures like houses, places of worship, health centres, schools, residential areas, shops, supermarkets, hotels, and more. The activity allowed participants to express their vision of what an ideal living space in Malta would look like.
Some of the comments shared by the children during the activity included:
Facilitated by sociologists from the MSA, the activity
was a platform for exploring the ideas behind the children’s decisions, while emphasising the importance of conducting a social impact assessment at the early stages of any project. Such assessments ensure that new developments foster a sense of belonging and meet the needs of the communities that will use them.
The simple yet thought-provoking exercise sparked meaningful conversations not only among children but also with their grown-up family members. The activity successfully guided participants through the urban planning process, encouraging them to reflect on the social impact of their decisions.
Participants delved into the importance of building diverse, inclusive, and equitable communities, aligning with the festival’s theme of Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (J.E.D.I.).
The Malta Sociological Association’s initiative demonstrated how even in its simplest form, engaging citizens, especially younger generations, in planning processes can foster better-designed spaces that promote well-being, environmental sustainability, and a sense of community.
chairperson.maltasociological@
Join us at Science in the City 2024!
Date: Saturday, September 28, 2024, 6-11pm
Location: Triton Square, Valletta
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Are you ready to shape the future?
Visit the stand of the Malta Sociological Association and the Department of Sociology, Faculty of Arts, University of Malta, at this year's Science in the City festival and take part in our exciting hands-on activity:
Design Your Ideal Village
Imagine a village that champions Justice, Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity (J.E.D.I). Using miniature building models, you’ll have the chance to create a community that reflects your vision of a perfect, harmonious society.
Guided by sociologists, you'll learn about the value of Social Impact Assessments (SIAs) in building equitable and inclusive communities. Discover how thoughtful planning can address societal and environmental challenges, promote fairness, and improve the quality of life for everyone.
This activity is perfect for all ages, offering a fun and educational experience that will empower you to think critically about community development.
Through this event, the Malta Sociological Association will be participating in the following initiatives:
Malta’s Sustainable Development Action Days 2024
European Sustainable Development Week
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Link to Science in the City events, with booking options: Click here
The Malta Sociological Association notes the introduction of funding for local councils to make their streets less car-centric and more people-friendly. The MSA appeals to Infrastructure Malta not to rush this process, and to be guided by evidence-based policymaking.
Giving Local councils a mere six weeks to apply for funds from the Vjal Kulħadd (Everyone's Boulevard) initiative can possibly have unintended consequences due to lack of time, preparation, and studies in the drafting of proposals. For example, the sociological study of social impacts should be mainstreamed in such proposals so as to help ensure continuous community and stakeholder involvement, which are essential components of Social Impact Assessments, and that pavements, roads, and infrastructure are as inclusive, equitable, and sustainable as possible.
The Malta Sociological Association therefore appeals for a more thorough application process for this otherwise positive policy proposal.
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