Open data portals across Europe: Malta builds transparency through open access and public participation

Malta’s national open data portal, portal.data.gov.mt, provides users with a central entry point to explore datasets published by national authorities. The platform currently offers over 230 datasets across sectors such as planning and statistics, with a user-friendly overview of contributing publishers, including institutions like the Planning Authority and the National Statistics Office. 

To promote transparency and engagement, the portal allows users to suggest new datasets, give feedback, and request access to data that is not yet open, with such datasets clearly flagged. This participatory approach strengthens dialogue between public institutions and data users, helping shape the development of Malta’s open data ecosystem. 

The portal is designed to support the management of metadata linked to national and EU legal frameworks. While still under development, it offers an evolving space where users can access, explore and provide input on a growing collection of datasets. The clear indication that this is a work in progress signals openness and encourages collaboration to improve the platform further. 

As Malta expands its digital public services, platforms like portal.data.gov.mt can support more informed decision-making and stronger connections between institutions and citizens. Visit the portal to discover available datasets, request access, or contribute your ideas. 

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