Malta is still mulling over the European Commission’s recommendation to carry out a national risk assessment of 5G network infrastructures by the end of June.
It is unclear whether the country has, or will be, carrying out cybersecurity and health hazard tests before the 5G roll out.
Fifth generation networks require radio frequencies to transmit data, just as AM and FM radio bands work. Malta is scheduled to start auctioning its 5G frequency band next year.
EU countries are preparing for 5G, however, its introduction has raised concern about cybersecurity and health hazards.
Over the past couple of years, some scientists have appealed to the EU for 5G technology to be blocked due to growing concerns about the increase in radiofrequency radiation and related health risks.
The technology promises lightning-fast data transfer, which is likely to become increasingly important in the coming years as more devices, from smart meters to household appliances, are connected to the internet.
No licence had been issued by MCA
The European Commission has recommended that each member state should complete a national risk assessment. Among others it noted that any vulnerability in 5G networks could be exploited to compromise such systems and digital infrastructure, potentially causing serious damage or to conduct large-scale data theft or espionage.
Asked whether Malta had or was planning to carry out cybersecurity and health hazard research or tests, the Parliamentary Secretary for Innovation said the Commission and member states, including Malta, were in discussions about the implementation of its recommendation about cybersecurity.
A spokeswoman said the EU had agreed on a broad set of measures to ensure a common approach across all member states.
“5G is recognised as a major enabler for future digital services and the government is actively pursuing this common approach to ensure its timely availability,” she said.
Malta, she continued, was engaged with “the relevant EU institutions and is taking the necessary steps” to ensure the availability of radio spectrum and the limits for exposure to electromagnetic fields as set by the International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection.
The Parliamentary Secretariat for Innovation said it was willing to discuss 5G technology before the Parliamentary Health Committee, welcoming a request by the Democratic Party.
Parliamentary Secretary Silvio Schembri said in a statement no licence had been issued by the Malta Communications Authority related to the transmission of mobile services of experimental or commercial matters related to 5G.
He noted that the European Commission had repeatedly stated it had not found any scientific justification to revise the limits set on exposure to electro-magnetic fields.
“The health and digital security of our citizens is of utmost priority and they will not be bartered for profits. The government is in continuous discussions with the relevant international institutions and closely following developments on these matters,” the parliamentary secretariat said.