Historical Encyclopedia
The government system of Malta has a long and layered history spanning over two thousand years. The development of the island's political structure has gone through various phases, including the rule of the Romans, Arabs, Normans, Knights of the Order of St. John, and Great Britain. In each of these periods, the forms of governance changed, from monarchy to republic, which greatly influenced the political and social fabric of the country.
Malta was part of the Roman Empire from 218 BC, when it was captured by the Romans during the Second Punic War. During the Roman Empire, the island was an important part of the Roman province of Africa. Malta held the status of a colony and was governed by a Roman magistrate. At this time, the Roman legal system was introduced on the island, and infrastructure and urban life began to develop. Malta became a significant strategic point for the Romans, with roads, amphitheaters, and other public buildings constructed, many of which have survived to this day.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Malta came under Arab control in 870 AD. Over several centuries of Arab rule, a significant cultural and social foundation was established on the island. The Arabs created an efficient administrative system, organizing governance on a territorial basis and establishing taxation. Malta became part of the Arab Emirate of Sicily, and this influence was reflected in agriculture, architecture, and language. During this time, several fortifications were built, and agriculture and irrigation systems were developed.
In 1091, Malta was captured by the Normans, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the island's history. The Normans restored Christian authority and created the Kingdom of Malta, subordinate to the Kingdom of Sicily. During the Norman period, Malta became an important center of Christian culture and faith, gaining a certain degree of autonomy within the broader kingdom. New Christian monasteries were built during this time, and relations with the Pope began to develop. The Norman era influenced the legal system, making laws more centralized and oriented towards West European models.
After Charles V of Spain transferred the island of Malta to the Order of St. John in 1530, one of the most significant epochs in Malta's history began. The knights of the Order of St. John, or as they were often called, the Knights of Malta, played a crucial role in shaping the island's government system. The island became a center of naval and Christian power in the Mediterranean, with the governance system based on the authoritarian power of the magistrates. They governed the island without direct interference from external authorities and developed policies aimed at defense and prosperity. During this time, Malta grew to be an important political and military hub, reflected in the construction of massive fortifications and the strengthening of national identity.
After the Great Siege of Malta and the decline of the Order of St. John in 1798, Malta became a target of French expansion when Napoleon Bonaparte seized the island. However, French rule was brief and harsh. In 1800, the island was handed over to Great Britain, and for nearly two centuries, Malta remained a British colony. During this period, British legislation was introduced, and Malta became an important naval base, playing a key role in both World Wars. The British governance system aimed to strengthen colonial control but also contributed to infrastructure and education development on the island. An important milestone during this period was the gradual integration of locals into the island's governance through the establishment of local parliaments and legislative bodies.
In the early 20th century, political movements demanding autonomy and independence became active in Malta. In 1921, the Constitutional Act was adopted, establishing an autonomous government on the island, yet still under British control. In 1934, a parliament with local representatives was created, fostering political activity. World War II played a significant role in Malta's independence process, as during the war, the island endured intense bombings and was crucial for Britain.
After the war, in 1964, Malta gained the status of an independent state within the Commonwealth of Nations. In 1974, the island became a republic, and in 1979, fully regained control over its foreign policy. Malta became a sovereign state, with its own constitution, political system, and national institutions.
Today, Malta is a parliamentary republic, where the head of state is the president, but real executive power lies with the prime minister and the government. An important aspect is the multiparty system, with key political parties representing various ideologies, from left to right. The Maltese Parliament consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate. In the political life of the country, significant issues include social policy, economy, foreign relations, and education.
In 2004, Malta became a member of the European Union, and in 2008, adopted the euro as its official currency. This strengthened the country's international position, making it an important economic and political center in the Mediterranean. Today, Malta continues to develop as a modern democratic country with stable economic and political structures.
The history of Malta's government system is a vivid example of how a small island can undergo various stages of governance and changes in governmental power, affecting its culture, economy, and international standing. From a Roman colony to a modern independent state, Malta has demonstrated the ability to adapt and evolve in the face of changing political realities. Today, the island continues to play an important role in the political and economic life of the Mediterranean while preserving its unique historical identity.