Prime Minister Robert Abela congratulated Times of Malta for their long-standing journalistic service to our country, while addressing a Business Breakfast organised by the same organisation marking the 90th anniversary of their establishment.
During this event, the Prime Minister noted that today’s media landscape is shaped by challenges where facts are questioned, disinformation spreads rapidly, and journalism faces both economic and digital pressures. Yet, he underlined the fact that history shows that quality journalism remains crucial for democracy in the country.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the Government’s duty to ensure that journalism in Malta continues to thrive. He referred to the launch of the public consultation on media reform, which reform prioritises the protection of journalists, the strengthening of freedom of expression, and the safeguarding of professional integrity. Through this reform the government aims to reinforce a framework that protects both journalistic freedom as well as human dignity. He stated that the Government has no intention of reintroducing criminal libel, which was abolished under this administration. Instead, the discussion should remain within the civil legal sphere. Dr Abela emphasised that Malta’s civil law must continue to provide protection for journalists acting in good faith, while also ensuring effective procedural and compensatory remedies for those who fall victim to abuses of freedom of expression.
Prime Minister Robert Abela also referred to three key legislative proposals that were also introduced to ensure that freedom of the press is enshrined in the Constitution of Malta, to strengthen privacy rights and also to give journalists stronger safeguards against harassment and intimidation. Prime Minister Abela also noted that Malta was the first country in Europe to introduce the anti-SLAPP legislation, ensuring that vexatious lawsuits cannot be used to silence reporting in the public interest.
He also referred to the practical steps that were taken to improve journalists’ safety, including new protocols for the police and security services to respond quickly and effectively to threats. He mentioned that the Government has also recognised the financial pressures newsrooms are facing, providing support during times of crisis, whether by mitigating the effects of the pandemic or by assisting printed newspapers hit by rising paper costs.
As Times of Malta celebrated its remarkable journey, Prime Minister Abela called for a collective and sustained commitment by government, media, and citizens to ensure that journalism in Malta continues to remain vibrant.
