Four UN human rights experts have called on the the government of Malta to honour its commitment to a prompt, independent investigation into the murder of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.

Agnes Callamard, Michel Forst, Juan Pablo Bohoslavsky and David Kaye said: “Her loss is a severe blow to independent investigative journalism, not only in Malta but also as a global symbol of the power of reporting in the public interest.

At a time of rising insecurity for journalists and anti-corruption activists worldwide it is imperative that the government do more than pursue investigations and accountability

“Caruana Galizia played a critical role in exposing Maltese political players involved in corruption through her reporting and analysis of the so-called Panama Papers. She was an outspoken critic of tax abuse and all forms of corruption by international corporations and politically exposed persons in Malta and abroad,” the UN experts said.

“We are pleased that the Maltese authorities have initiated an investigation into the murder. We now urge a prompt, thorough and independent public inquiry and investigation, followed by a full judicial process to hold all the perpetrators to account. Concerns expressed by Caruana Galizia’s family in relation to the independence of the investigating judge should be taken seriously,” the experts added.

“At a time of rising insecurity for journalists and anti-corruption activists worldwide it is imperative that the government do more than pursue investigations and accountability,” the experts added.

“It is also crucial that the government – indeed all governments – devote resources to protect journalists and activists and to encourage a vibrant space for the watchdog role of independent reporting, especially reporting critical of government, officials and politicians.”