VALLETTA 2018 Final Research Report
CONCLUDING REMARKS Each of the studies presented throughout this report outline key aspects of what the ECoC title represented for Malta. Although different drastically in scope, methodology and topic, these studies provide a unique insight into how the ECoC title influenced social and cultural activity in Malta throughout 2018 and in the years preceding the title. A number of studies, such as those within Themes 2 and 4 (Governance & Finance and The Tourist Experience, respectively) are to be taken within the proper context, as they relate more directly to developments within the broader Maltese economy. Although still strongly influenced by outside factors, other studies, such as those in Themes 1, 3, and 5 (Cultural & Territorial Vibrancy; Community Inclusion & Space; and The Valletta Brand) deal more directly with the immediate impacts of the activities that took place throughout the ECoC year. As these studies evolved over the years, and as the researchers discussed and debated their findings throughout the quarterly meetings held by the Evaluation & Monitoring Steering Committee, it became increasingly apparent that this research represents only the tip of the iceberg.
Throughout these meetings discussions on various topics arose - from wellbeing to transportation, passing through sustainable development, the diversity of labour within the creative industries, and the particularities of the governance structures within the cultural sector. Each of these, along with many more, merits further investigation and would contribute immeasurably to the understanding of the true impacts of Valletta 2018 on Maltese society. Furthermore, these studies proved to be a valuable exercise in self-reflection for the research team responsible for their implementation. They allowed the team to step away from any platitudes and critique, and adopt a more critical and holistic approach towards the true impacts of the ECoC title. It is hoped that these studies will provide a springboard, inspiring researchers and practitioners to adopt these concerns within their practice, maintaining the same critical and reflexive approach within their own work.