Government launches public consultation on media reform
Self-regulation of journalists, national code of ethics among issues under review
A public consultation on media reform was launched on Friday as the government seek to create a legal framework that “strengthens freedom of expression while promoting accountability and integrity in journalism”.
In a statement, the Justice Ministry said the initiative builds on a 2021 government commitment following the recommendations of the public inquiry into the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia which led to the appointment of a Committee of Media Experts.
The reform process, which has already led to the presentation of three bills in parliament, is now expanding with a wider public consultation.
Justice Minister Jonathan Attard said this process was “an opportunity for Malta to continue to be a catalyst in the reforms being carried out both at national and at European level”.
“Malta was the first country in the EU to introduce provisions against SLAPP actions, and was active in promoting an ambitious European directive in this area,” Attard said.
The public consultation is based on the updated report of the Committee of Experts chaired by Judge Emeritus Michael Mallia, which includes analyses and recommendations following an extensive consultation process with various stakeholders, including the Institute of Maltese Journalists and international organisations.
The consultation will focus on “crucial issues” such as the self-regulation of the journalism profession, a national code of journalist ethics, striking a balance between freedom of expression and the protection of reputation, adequacy of judicial remedies, and combating disinformation and political influence in the media.
The public consultation process is open until October 31 and the public can submit their views via email consultation.justice@gov.mt or through the government’s public consultation website.