Malta has been labeled as a stagnant country in terms of rule of law, according to a report that highlights the need for depoliticization of key appointments and reforms in its justice system. The Liberties Rule of Law Report 2025 calls for substantial changes across Malta’s justice system, anti-corruption framework, media environment, and checks and balances.
The report notes systemic failures, particularly those identified in the public inquiry into the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia. It urges government to address these issues by implementing reforms, including the end of political appointments for key roles such as police commissioner, attorney general, and chief justice.
Furthermore, the report recommends introducing a crime of obstruction of justice with appropriate sentences and criminalizing abuse of office by public officials. The European Commission should also be recommended to support Malta’s efforts to strengthen integrity and increase public trust.
Additionally, the report emphasizes the need for reform in Malta’s Freedom of Information Act, ensuring access to information held by public authorities and preventing arbitrary rejections. A long-awaited media law reform has been promised but not yet finalized.
The report advocates for an immediate suspension of secretive law reforms concerning magisterial inquiries and demands that any reform process be opened to public consultation to safeguard civil society’s rights. It also recommends establishing an independent body to initiate public inquiries in cases of systemic issues affecting public interest.
Source: https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/134080/depoliticise_appointments_for_police_commissioner_ag_report_tells_malta