In the heart of Valletta, on the bustling Republic Street, a group of young Maltese are not just window shopping. They’re window campaigning. Among the tourists and locals, they hand out leaflets, engage in conversations, and share their vision. These are not your average political activists. They’re part of a new breed of politicians, ready to govern Malta.

A New Generation Rises

Meet the ‘Generation 2019′, a term coined by the media for the crop of young politicians who emerged during the 2019 general election. Born in the 1990s, they’ve grown up in a Malta vastly different from their parents’. They’ve seen their island transform from a sleepy Mediterranean backwater to a bustling EU member state. Now, they’re ready to shape its future.

Take for instance, Clayton Bartolo. At 30, he’s already a seasoned politician, serving as Opposition Whip in Parliament. Born and bred in Msida, he’s seen firsthand the challenges and opportunities Malta faces. “We’re not just about change for the sake of it,” he says, “We’re about smart, sustainable change that benefits all Maltese.”

From Protests to Politics

Many of these young politicians cut their teeth in street protests. They were at the forefront of the ‘Ix-Xiħ’ protests against corruption, and the ‘Malta Loves Feminism’ rallies. They’ve brought a new energy and urgency to Maltese politics, reflecting the concerns and aspirations of their peers.

Take the case of the ‘Baby Hospital’ in Msida. When plans to close it down were announced, it was these young activists who mobilized the community, organized protests, and eventually, forced the government to reverse its decision. It’s this kind of grassroots activism that’s now translating into political power.

Ready to Govern

But are they ready to govern? Critics point to their lack of experience, their naivety. Yet, their supporters argue that their fresh perspectives and digital savviness are just what Malta needs. They’ve grown up in a world of instant communication, of instant gratification. They understand the power of social media, the importance of transparency, the need for immediate action.

Take the example of the environment. While older politicians might still be debating the merits of recycling, these young Turks are already talking about carbon neutrality, about sustainable tourism, about green jobs. They’re not just ready to govern, they’re ready to lead.

As Bartolo puts it, “We’re not afraid to dream big, to set ambitious targets. Because we know that’s what our generation expects, and that’s what our country needs.”