Malta’s Democracy ‘Stagnating’ Amid EU-Wide Decline
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Loading... - Sara Koopman
- 20 Mar 2025
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A recent report has described Malta’s democracy as “stagnating,” indicating that there has been no progress on various democratic indicators over the past year. The Liberties Rule of Law Report 2025, published by the Civil Liberties Union for Europe, highlights that efforts to improve the justice system, checks and balances, media environment, and human rights have faltered.
The report notes that Malta was among five countries that made “only minimal progress” in their rule of law indicators since the previous year, alongside Greece, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Spain. It points to a broader “democratic recession” across the EU, describing the situation as “toothless.”
Malta faces “serious problems” in tackling high-level corruption, with the report citing institutional weaknesses and a lack of accountability. It also highlights issues related to political interference in judicial appointments and the struggle of independent authorities against political manipulation and resource shortages.
The report raises alarms about the media environment in Malta, noting ongoing threats to the independence of public service media. It mentions “verbal attacks, threats, targeted smear campaigns, and abusive lawsuits against journalists.” The lack of media plurality and opaque ownership of media organizations were also highlighted as significant issues.
The report emphasizes “severe delays” in Malta’s justice system and the politicization of key judicial roles. It calls for increased transparency in judicial processes and notes that there have been “no formal steps” toward establishing a National Human Rights Institution (NHRI).
Despite recommendations from various bodies, the government has delayed implementing measures from the public inquiry into the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. The report indicates that there have been no high-level prosecutions linked to corruption, calling for the introduction of legislation to safeguard against improper conduct by public officials.
While civic space has become more vibrant, particularly regarding environmental issues, the report states that government officials continue to label anti-corruption journalists and activists as “enemies of the state.” This rhetoric negatively impacts public trust in independent media and civil society.
In response to the report, the Justice Ministry categorically rejected various claims, asserting that it had not been consulted during the report's preparation. The ministry emphasized the substantial reforms and progress made in strengthening Malta’s rule of law and justice system, citing improvements in judicial independence and transparency.
The government highlighted constitutional amendments aimed at ensuring judges are selected based on merit and the separation of roles within the judiciary to reinforce checks and balances. It also pointed to increased resources for the Permanent Commission Against Corruption and the successful transposition of the Anti-SLAPP Directive into law.
The Liberties Rule of Law Report paints a concerning picture of Malta’s democratic landscape, highlighting stagnation and challenges in various areas, including corruption, media freedom, and judicial independence. While the government asserts that significant reforms have been made, the report underscores the need for continued efforts to address these critical issues and restore public trust in democratic institutions. As the EU faces a broader democratic recession, the situation in Malta serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges to rule of law and governance across the region.
