Once again, the Government is moving forward with a comprehensive reform at the centre of which there should be journalists and other media professionals working with dedication and integrity to inform society of facts based on serious and verified research.
Although the Government started this process almost three years ago and has already presented three bills in Parliament, there was a suggestion for a wider public consultation. This was done so that the Government can evaluate holistically, after listening and considering all opinions and perspectives in society.
In 2021, the Government showed a serious commitment to the recommendations of the Public Inquiry into the tragic death of Daphne Caruana Galizia. Extensive consultations were held with her family, the Institute of Maltese journalists, as well as international organisations. From this process, the foundation for the bills tabled in Parliament by the Prime Minister has been built.
As recommended by the same Inquiry, a Committee of experts was set up, led by Judge Emeritus Michael Mallia. This Committee presented two reports: the first focused on the original drafts, while the second addressed the updated drafts and included a wider consultation. It is important to note that the Committee was in line with the majority of the reactions presented by the Government.
The Government remained consistent in its commitment to remain open for consultation. Although he believed that the bills could offer the highest level of protection for journalism in Malta, he chose to reopen the process to ensure that it is truly inclusive and reflects all the views of society.
This process represents a historic opportunity for Malta to be a catalyst for positive change in this sector, not only at national level but also at European level.
We are therefore presenting a number of key questions prompted by the same public inquiry and others that responsibly reflect the ongoing discussion on how to effectively address the abuse of freedom of expression.
We look forward to the contribution of the public, your thoughts, proposals and opinions, so that together we can take another step forward in this fundamental area for our democracy.
The consultation document is available (in Maltese) via the following link:
https://justice.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/KONSULTAZZJONI-PUBBLIKA-DWAR-IR-RIFORMA-FIL-MIDJA.pdf
Submissions can be sent till Friday 31st October 2025 using the online form provided below.
