The Representation of Whiteness in Malta and Maltese Education

This chapter examines how Whiteness is represented in Malta and the Maltese education system. By undergoing a historical analysis of Malta’s colonial history, particularly during British rule, this chapter highlights how the country’s colonization past and the current decolonization process affect issues of Whiteness in Malta, such as racism, exclusion, and White privilege. Furthermore, this chapter examines the presence of Whiteness in Malta’s educational contexts. By exploring its decolonization process, educational programs, and education policies, this chapter looks into the presence of Whiteness issues in the Maltese education system, particularly discrimination, exclusion, and integration. Malta, which is currently undergoing its decolonization process (including in its education system), is a pertinent example of how issues of Whiteness are prevalent in Maltese society. This chapter concludes that Whiteness, as a field of study, is often overlooked in Malta. However, critical issues that are under the field of Whiteness are present in Malta’s sociopolitical and educational contexts. Therefore, having Whiteness issues already present in the Maltese population can serve as a springboard for Whiteness studies to be part of the respective educational contexts.