“While spending some time away from our shores is certainly beneficial as it opens young people up to different cultures, experiences, and ways of living, it should be noted as a cause for concern,” EY sombrely wrote in its findings.

Both Gen-Zs and Millennials ranked overdevelopment and the environment as Malta’s two biggest challenges.

Malta’s international image came in third place among Millennials, while climate change took the spot among Gen Zs.

Overall concern on the economy dropped by 8% since last year’s survey, while concern on the COVID-19 pandemic plummeted by 39%.

EY urged the authorities to raise Malta’s standard of living, flagging how property has become unaffordable for several people. 

“Many young people today have travelled abroad, rented apartments in other European cities, dined in their restaurants, and are living an ever-increasingly globalised existence,” it said. “They’re comparing their way of life in Malta to other countries and while they appreciate the positives, they are questioning how we can strike a balance.”

“Property prices is one instance that has become increasingly unaffordable as wages have not increased while even the cost of food is sometimes a bit too exorbitant. Authorities need to tackle these issues with a view to both the short and long-term effects that certain schemes are having on the market.”

How can Malta solve its brain drain problem?