Photos: European Commission Visitors’ Centre, Samuel Scicluna, Permanent Representation of Malta to the European Union
Between 7 and 8 July 2026, Ms Michelle Galea (Director, Health Care Funding Directorate) and Mr Samuel Scicluna (Senior Policy Officer) participated in an information visit to Brussels organised by the European Commission Representation in Malta for Europe Direct centres and EU Information Providers.
The programme brought together participants from various organisations involved in communicating EU policies and initiatives. During the visit, participants attended a series of presentations and discussions at the European Commission (Visitors’ Centre) and the Permanent Representation of Malta to the EU (PREU).
Topics covered during the programme included the European Commission’s and EU institutions’ role, the EU decision-making process, various other European policy initiatives and priorities, and Malta’s representation within the EU through the PREU’s work. Participants gained practical insight into the functioning of the Council of the EU, the work of Malta’s attachés in Brussels, and the importance of coordination between national authorities and Malta’s representatives at EU level.
A highlight of the programme was an interactive simulation exercise based on negotiations within the Council of the EU. Participants assumed the role of different Member States and were required to negotiate a common position on a sample legislative proposal, providing practical experience of the consensus-building and decision-making processes that shape EU policy development.
The visit provided a valuable opportunity to gain a better understanding of how the EU functions and Malta’s role within it. Insights acquired during the visit will contribute to the Directorate’s ongoing work and strengthen understanding of the links between the Directorate’s work in Malta, that of the PREU in Brussels, and of the wider EU institutions. Such programmes provide practical exposure to how EU laws, policies and decisions are developed and ultimately influence the implementation of schemes and services delivered at national level in Malta.
Further information and highlights can be viewed on the official social media pages of the Permanent Representation of Malta to the EU:
