Malta

Malta is a small, densely-populated, nation in the Mediterranean, south of Sicily and north of Libya. It gained independence from the UK in 1964 and became a parliamentary republic in 1974.

An estimated 544,000 people live on the three islands that make up the archipelago.¹“Malta Population”, Worldometer, accessed March 2025 https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/malta-population/ Despite the increasing ethnic diversity on the islands,²Regine Nguini, “Where to find African items in Malta and numbers about recent census”, African Media Association Malta, 15 April 2023
https://www.africanmediamalta.com/post/where-to-find-african-items-in-malta-and-numbers-about-recent-census the 2021 census showed that 83% of the population identify as Catholic. The next most common religious affiliation, accounting for some 5% of the population, was “none”.³Neville Borg, “90% Caucasian, 83% Roman Catholic: Malta census statistics released”, Times of Malta, 16 February 2023
https://timesofmalta.com/article/90-caucasian-83-roman-catholic-malta-census-statistics-released.1014045 In comparison to previous census data, it would appear that the Catholic population is decreasing (See ‘Family, Community and Society’, below).

Malta joined the European Union in 2004.

Constitution and government	Education and children’s rights	Family, community, society, religious courts and tribunals	Freedom of expression advocacy of humanist values
There is systematic religious privilege Preferential treatment is given to a religion or religion in general There is an established church or state religion State-funding of religious institutions or salaries, or discriminatory tax exemptions	There is state funding of at least some religious schools Religious schools have powers to discriminate in admissions or employment	There is significant social marginalisation of the non-religious or stigma associated with expressing atheism, humanism or secularism Discriminatory prominence is given to religious bodies, traditions or leaders
Official symbolic deference to religion			Some concerns about political or media freedoms, not specific to the non-religious

Constitution and government

There is systematic religious privilege

Preferential treatment is given to a religion or religion in general

There is an established church or state religion

State-funding of religious institutions or salaries, or discriminatory tax exemptions

Official symbolic deference to religion

Education and children’s rights

There is state funding of at least some religious schools

Religious schools have powers to discriminate in admissions or employment

Family, community, society, religious courts and tribunals

There is significant social marginalisation of the non-religious or stigma associated with expressing atheism, humanism or secularism

Discriminatory prominence is given to religious bodies, traditions or leaders

Freedom of expression advocacy of humanist values

Some concerns about political or media freedoms, not specific to the non-religious

Legend

Systemic Discrimination

Mostly Satisfactory

More information about rating table

Constitution and government

Under the Constitution,⁴Constitution of Malta, Legislation Malta, accessed March 2025 https://legislation.mt/eli/const/eng Roman Catholicism is the State religion:

Article 2
(1) The religion of Malta is the Roman Catholic Apostolic Religion.
(2) The authorities of the Roman Catholic Apostolic Church have the duty and the right to teach which principles are right and which are wrong.

Nevertheless, freedom of conscience, religion and expression are protected under Article 32:
. . .every person in Malta is entitled to the fundamental rights and freedoms of the individual, that is to say, the right, whatever his race, place of origin, political opinions, colour, creed, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, but subject to respect for the rights and freedoms of others and for the public interest, to each and all of the following[…]
(b) freedom of conscience, of expression and of peaceful assembly and association

In addition, Article 40 states,
(1) All persons in Malta shall have full freedom of conscience and enjoy the free exercise of their respective mode of religious worship.

In 2020, Prime Minister Robert Abela said:

“Malta is a secular state, but the constitution also affords a strong, fundamental freedom that everyone is entitled to his religion of choice”.⁵David Hudson, “Catholic reference in constitution does not need to change but all religions welcome, Abela says”, Malta Today, https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/99799/watch_catholic_reference_in_constitution_does_not_need_to_change_but_all_religions_welcome_abela_says

He did not explain how the State can be secular given Article 2 of the Constitution. Secularism is seldom addressed in public discourse.

Religious Privilege

Preference to the Roman Catholic Church is endemic and ingrained in Maltese culture. A number of Concordats with the Vatican remain in force,⁶“Current bilateral agreements of the Holy See”, Pontificia Università Gregoriana, accessed March 2025
https://www.iuscangreg.it/accordi_santa_sede.php?lang=IT#Malta which together establish a framework for Church-State relations, including regarding the use of religious buildings, Catholic religious education in schools, and marriages conducted by the Roman Catholic Church.

As a result of a 1995 Concordat, only Roman Catholic weddings are considered to have the same legal weight as civil marriage under the Marriage Act.⁷Chapter 255, Marriage Act, Legislation Malta, 12 August 1975; 1 October 1975 (see page 8) https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/255/eng All other non-Catholic weddings – including humanist weddings – must be conducted in the presence of a registrar to be legally recognized.

Roman Catholic members (not further defined) of the medical profession are required by law to abide by the tenets of the Roman Catholic Apostolic Religion.⁸Subsidiary Legislation 464.17, Ethics of the Medical Profession Regulations, 18 November 2008 https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/464.17/eng/pdf (see page 8) At the time of writing, no examples of the clause having been used have been found. However, the existence of this clause has the potential to have negative consequences on the provision of care should assisted dying or surrogacy be legalized, or abortion rights extended, as they represent conflict with Catholic tenets.

Since 1974 a secular affirmation in place of an oath, in courts and elsewhere, has been legally available.⁹Chapter 245, Affirmations Act, Legislation Malta, 28 June 1974 https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/245/eng/pdf#:~:text=(1)%20An%20affirmation%20made%20instead%20of%20an%20oath%20shall%2C,he%20had%20been%20duly%20sworn However, the default convention is for oaths to be taken on a crucifix, including for elected parliamentarians.

Official symbolic deference to Roman Catholicism is pervasive across the public sector, and appears to form part of public policy. For example, prior to each parliamentary sitting, a prayer is recited.¹⁰“Parliament Practice”, Parliament of Malta, accessed March 2025
https://parlament.mt/menues/about-parliament/how-parliament-works/parliament-practice/ The motto of the national police force is “Domine Direge Nos” (Lord, guide us).¹¹Michael Falzon, “Domine Dirige Nos?”, Malta Today, 7 March 2017 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/comment/blogs/75075/domine_dirige_nos

All public buildings including hospitals and classrooms display crucifixes. Government ministers have previously intervened to ensure that religious iconography may be displayed in public buildings. For example, in 2019, then Health Minister Chris Fearne ordered the withdrawal of a circular requiring the removal of religious items and images (but not crucifixes) from Mater Dei, the main State hospital.¹² James Debono, “ Totems of identity: Why the Maltese love their crosses”, Malta Today, 12 April 2019 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/94248/totems_of_identity_why_the_maltese_love_their_crosses Policy on the retention of crucifixes and religious symbols in Mater Dei was reiterated in 2025.¹³ Emil Calleja Bayliss, ““L-Isptar Mater Dei Jiċħad Kategorikament Li Ġew Imneħħija Xi Slaleb Jew Xi Simboli Reliġjużi Minn Xi Swali Fl-Isptar.” – L-Isptar Mater Dei”, Kellymni, 16 January 2025 https://www.gwida.mt/mt/l-isptar-mater-dei-ji-ad-kategorikament-li-ew-imne-ija-xi-slaleb-jew-xi-simboli-reli-ju-i-minn-xi-swali-fl-isptar-l-isptar-mater-dei Further, in 2020, the Prime Minister intervened to reinstate a large cross on a hilltop, which had been removed following a Planning Authority enforcement order.¹⁴“Order to remove Mellieħa crucifix reversed following complaints by cross locals”, Times of Malta, 19 August 2020 https://timesofmalta.com/article/order-to-remove-mellieha-crucifix-reversed-following-complaints-by.812898 Significant amounts of state funding are also allocated to church restoration projects.¹⁵ “Government to fund Marsa Holy Trinity church restoration”, Times of Malta, 8 March 2022 https://timesofmalta.com/article/government-to-fund-marsa-holy-trinity-church-restoration.939786;
“ Valletta churches to benefit from €700,000 in government funds for restoration”, Times of Malta, 10 June 2020 https://timesofmalta.com/article/valletta-churches-to-benefit-from-700000-in-government-funds-for.797598;
“Government to fund restoration of old Birkirkara parish church”, Times of Malta, 8 May 2020 https://timesofmalta.com/article/government-to-fund-restoration-of-old-birkirkara-parish-church.790871

In 2021, the Government co-sponsored a draft resolution to give the Vatican a more active role in UN health issues, including reproductive and sexual rights.¹⁶Nicole Mailak, “Vatican critics balk at United Nations health role co-sponsored by Malta”, Malta Today, 26 May 2021 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/109816/vatican_critics_balk_at_united_nations_health_role_cosponsored_by_malta

There are only rare examples of mainstream politicians speaking against Roman Catholic teachings and tradition. They include:
– in December 2024 Daniel Micallef repeated his support for Assisted Dying, which he previously gave when deputy leader of the Labour Party;¹⁷“Assisted Dying: Needs and realities of people will prevail | Daniel Micallef”, Malta Today, 9 December 2024 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/comment/blogs/132674/assisted_dying_needs_and_realities_of_people_will_prevail___daniel_micallef
– in December 2024 Labour Party Health Minister Joe Etienne Abela repeated his support for “doctor-assisted dying” in extreme circumstances;¹⁸Claudia Calleja, “Watch: Doctor-assisted dying should start being debated ‘in new year’”, Times of Malta, 10 December 2024 https://timesofmalta.com/article/watch-doctorassisted-dying-start-debated-in-new-year.1102241?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2qi83-rJZnsOOI0PN-fz6WGye80HTAjt9xYMaoFKdUzId6DyraSAG0M9Q_aem_dUaqH3u_Jv9AInJ7jAN3PA
– when she became European Parliament President in 2022, MEP Roberta Metsola (a member of the Nationalist Party – Partit Nazzjonalista), having voted against abortion in the national parliament, said hers was the European Parliament’s (pro-choice) position;¹⁹Gregoire Lory, “ Roberta Metsola on abortion: ‘My position is the European Parliament’s position’”, Euronews, 18 January 2022 https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2022/01/18/roberta-metsola-on-abortion-my-position-is-the-european-parliament-s-position
– while an MEP 2020-4 Cyrus Engerer (then a member of the Labour Party), called for abortion to be included in the European Charter of fundamental rights,²⁰Matthew Vella, “Labour MEP makes plea for abortion to become fundamental right in EU Charter”, Malta Today, 14 March 2024 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/ewropej/128109/labour_mep_makes_plea_for_abortion_to_become_fundamental_right_in_eu_charte and has supported pro-choice activists in Malta.²¹Giulia Magri, “ Pro-choice activists demand decriminalisation of abortion”, Times of Malta, 28 September 2024 https://timesofmalta.com/article/prochoice-activists-demand-decriminalisation-abortion.1098748

Equality

In 2016, a law²²Parliament of Malta, Motion No. 428, Human Rights and Equality Commission Bill – First Reading, https://parlament.mt/12th-leg/motions-12th/motion-no-428/ was proposed to replace the National Commission for the Promotion of Equality with a more powerful Human Rights and Equality Commission, with powers to act on complaints about discrimination based on protected characteristics such as gender, nationality, age, sexual orientation, health status and social origin. The Bill prompted concern about the implications for employment in Church schools; conscientious objection; religious manifestations; and the burden of proof.²³The Church in Malta, “The Equality Bill and Religious Freedom: A Position Paper”, October 2016 https://www.independent.com.mt/file.aspx?f=135324;
“Unfair, unnecessary Bills”, Life Network Malta, https://lifenetwork.eu/unfair-unnecessary-bills/ The process stalled.

In 2019, two revised, related, Bills were presented to Parliament, but there has been no known progress since then, despite the Prime Minister’s announcement in 2023 that the issue was back on the agenda,²⁴Tim Diacono, “ Watch: New Equality Law Is Back On Our Agenda, Robert Abela Announces”, Lovin Malta, 31 March 2023 https://lovinmalta.com/news/watch-new-equality-law-is-back-on-our-agenda-robert-abela-announces/ and despite Malta’s commitment to the UN to create a national Human Rights institution by 2025 in accordance with the UN Paris Principles.²⁵“Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review”, UN Human Rights Council, Fifty-sixth session, 18 June–12 July 2024 https://documents.un.org/access.nsf/get?OpenAgent&DS=A/HRC/56/17/Add.1&Lang=E

Religious Minorities

Religious minorities are not required to register with, nor be licensed by, the State. Religious or other affiliation is not included in identity documents.

Education and children’s rights

State-Subsidized Religious Schools

About 30% of primary and secondary students attend private schools,²⁶“Pre-Primary, Primary and Secondary Formal Education: 2021-2022”, National Statistics Office, 25 October 2023 https://nso.gov.mt/education/pre-primary-primary-and-secondary-formal-education-2021-2022/ which are predominantly run by the Roman Catholic Church, and funded to a large extent by the State (see ‘Religious Privilege’, above). Non-religious educators are employed in Roman Catholic Church Schools, and entry to the schools is not wholly restricted to Roman Catholic pupils, although a small proportion of schools only accept baptized Christian students. In two cases private schools only accept Catholic students.²⁷ (see paragraph 7 in each document):
Secretariat for Catholic Education, Admissions Office, General Regulations for Admission into Church Schools, Malta. Kindergarten 1 – 2025-2026 Applicants born in 2022
https://ms.knisja.mt/WEBSITE/2025/CHURCH%20SCHOOLS/REGULATIONS/Regulations%20K1%20-%202025-2026.pdf
Secretariat for Catholic Education, Admissions Office, General Regulations for Admission into Church Schools, Malta, Kindergarten 2 – 2025-2026 Applicants born in 2021
https://ms.knisja.mt/WEBSITE/2025/CHURCH%20SCHOOLS/REGULATIONS/Regulations%20K2%20-%202025-2026.pdf
Secretariat for Catholic Education, Admissions Office, General Regulations for Admission into Church Schools, Malta, Year 1 Primary 2025-2026 Applicants born in 2020
https://ms.knisja.mt/WEBSITE/2025/CHURCH%20SCHOOLS/REGULATIONS/Regulations%20Y1%20-%202025-2026.pdf
Secretariat for Catholic Education, Admissions Office, General Regulations for Admission into Church Schools, Malta, Form 1 2025-2026 Applicants born in 2014
https://ms.knisja.mt/WEBSITE/2025/CHURCH%20SCHOOLS/REGULATIONS/Regulations%20F1%202025-2026.pdf

Religious education

Article 2 (3) of the Constitution prescribes teaching of the Roman Catholic faith as compulsory in all State schools:

“Religious teaching of the Roman Catholic Apostolic Faith shall be provided in all State schools as part of compulsory education.”

However, this is restricted by Article 40, which provides exceptions for those whose parent/guardian decides otherwise. Article 40 (2) states that:

“No person shall be required to receive instruction in religion or to show knowledge or proficiency in religion if, in the case of a person who has not attained the age of sixteen years, objection to such requirement is made by the person who agreeing to law has authority over him and, in any other case, if the person so required objects thereto[…]”

In Religious Education in a Multicultural Europe, Mary Darmanin notes:

“Although not obliged to be denominational by the Education Act, State schools in Malta function as de facto Catholic schools in terms of their school ethos and formal RE [religious education] curriculum.”

According to anecdotal evidence provided by Humanists Malta, this largely remains the case 11 years later.

Ethics Education

In 2014, primary, middle and secondary State schools began to introduce Ethics as an alternative for students whose parents/guardians opt them out of Religious Education. Humanists Malta were consulted on the syllabus for this new subject.²⁸“Ethics to be offered instead of religion in government schools as from September”, Malta Independent, 24 January 2014 https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2014-01-24/news/ethics-to-be-offered-in-government-schools-instead-of-religion-as-from-september-3770875906/

In 2024, it was reported that candidates sitting the end of secondary school (‘O’ level) Ethics exams have increased from 38 in 2018 to 738. And, following the introduction of the 2024-2030 National Education Strategy, Ethics will be available to 13-year-old students as an optional subject, alongside, rather than necessarily as an alternative to, Religious Education.²⁹James Debono, “Ethics to be option for all 13-year-olds as O-level candidates grow by 32%”, Malta Today, 21 November 2024 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/132331/ethics_to_be_option_for_all_13yearolds_as_olevel_candidates_grow_by_32

Sex Education

Whilst there are increasingly effective programs in some schools, including in some Roman Catholic schools (which, under a Vatican Concordat, are not obliged to provide any sex education),³⁰Ana Tortell, “Let’s Take A Deep Dive Into Malta’s Sex Education And Its ‘Ever-Updating’ Syllabus”, Lovin Malta, 8 December 2018 https://lovinmalta.com/lifestyle/health/reproductive-health/malta-sex-education-syllabus/ sex education can be inconsistent.³¹“Is Sex Education even a thing in Malta?”, The Third Eye, 7 September 2019 https://thirdeyemalta.com/is-sex-education-even-a-thing-in-malta-betapsi/ This may be at least in part as a result of the failure of Government guidelines on sexuality and relationships education,³²Stephen Camilleri, Guidelines on Sexuality and Relationships Education in Maltese Schools, Ministry for Education and Employment, December 2013 https://sustainabledevelopment.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Guidelines-on-Sexuality-booklet.pdf last issued in 2013, to set an obligatory syllabus, thereby leaving the teaching of the subject open to interpretation. As a result, inappropriate materials are reportedly still used, including, albeit now rarely, the discredited 1984 anti-abortion video “The Silent Scream”.³³“About that “Silent Scream””, Doctors for Choice, 23 November 2021 https://www.doctorsforchoice.mt/post/about-that-silent-scream Further, there have been instances in which anti-abortion groups have been given a platform to contribute to sex education classes by school officials without pro-choice advocates being afforded the same opportunity.³⁴“It’s only right if abortion’s wrong”, Times of Malta, 7 February 2017 https://timesofmalta.com/article/its-only-right-if-abortions-wrong.638868

According to various surveys,³⁵“Betapsi Sex Education Policy Paper”, Betapsi, 22 April 2022 https://betapsi.mt/2022/04/22/betapsi-sex-education-policy-paper/ many young people remain under-informed about safe sex, sexual relationships, and sexual orientation. They are often exposed to Roman Catholic doctrine, which emphasizes abstinence. Objections by parents have also been raised to any sex education without express parental consent.³⁶ Yannick Pace, “Education Ministry laments ‘false and irresponsible’ allegations about sex education in schools”, Malta Today, 11 May 2019 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/94915/education_ministry_laments_false_and_irresponsible_allegations_about_sex_education_in_schools#.YARbn8VKiWA;
“See it here: Education Ministry publishes sex education book that raised controversy”, Malta Independent, 15 May 2019
https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2019-05-15/local-news/Education-Ministry-publishes-sex-education-book-that-raised-controversy-6736208175 A 2022 study by the International Health Behaviour in School-aged Children found a higher than EU-average incidence of unprotected sex amongst Maltese girls, with 40% of girls and 28% of boys reporting use of neither condoms nor the contraceptive pill during their last intercourse, though the use of condoms and the pill have increased.³⁷James Debono, “Half of sexually active girls having unprotected sex – Health Behaviour Study”, Malta Today, 17 September 2024 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/131220/one_in_two_15yearold_girls_having_unprotected_sex

Quite probably as a result, compared to the EU, Malta has a high, if dropping, rate of teen pregnancy,³⁸Sam Vassallo, “38 Girls Under 18 Became Mothers In Malta In 2020”, Lovin Malta, 23 April 2021 https://lovinmalta.com/news/38-girls-under-18-became-mothers-in-malta-in-2020/ and high rates of sexually-transmitted infections (see also ‘Sexual and Reproductive Health’, below).³⁹Government of Malta Ministry for Health and Active Ageing, National Sexual Health Strategy (see pages 24 & 27), 2025-2030, accessed March 2025 https://health.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/National_Sexual_Health_Strategy_2025_2030.pdf;
Jurgen Balzan, “Malta with one of the highest rates of gonorrhoea in Europe” Newsbook, 8 December 2023 https://newsbook.com.mt/en/malta-with-one-of-the-highest-rates-of-gonorrhoea-in-europe/

In December 2024, the Government launched a consultation document on an updated National Sexual Health Strategy 2025-30 which noted that:

“Children and young people who do not receive high-quality, age and developmentally appropriate sexuality and relationship education may be left vulnerable to harmful sexual behaviours[…]”

The Government called for comprehensive, evidence-based sex education ensuring consistency across all schools (State, Church, and independent).⁴⁰ Government of Malta Ministry for Health and Active Ageing, National Sexual Health Strategy (see page 14), 2025-2030, accessed March 2025 https://health.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/National_Sexual_Health_Strategy_2025_2030.pdf The calls have received support from some parents and students.⁴¹Jelena Bezzina, Daniela Attard and Anya Soldatova, “Parents for Choice: what we believe in” Malta Today, 14 July 2021 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/comment/blogs/110864/parents_for_choice_what_we_believe_invs;
“KSU launches sexual education campaign to tackle misinformation”, Times of Malta, 14 February 2022 https://timesofmalta.com/article/ksu-launches-sexual-education-campaign-to-tackle-misinformation.934465

Family, Community and Society

The place of religion in society

In the 2021 State of the Nation survey, 93.5% said they believed in God; 3% did not; 3.5% did not know.⁴²Claire Farrugia and Giulia Magri, “What the experts say about ‘State of the Nation’ survey results”, Times of Malta, 7 June 2021 https://timesofmalta.com/article/what-the-experts-say-about-state-of-the-nation-survey-results.877127 Further, a 2021 Eurobarometer survey found that religion was not important at all for 9% of Maltese; not important for 20%; important for 58%; and of maximum importance for 22%.⁴³James Debono, “ Religio et Patria: Maltese in top five ‘most religious’ in Europe”, Malta Today, 25 November 2021 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/113385/religio_et_patria_maltese_in_top_five_most_religious_in_europe

This would appear to be supported by 2019 Census data, which indicates that, between 1967 and 2017, weekly mass attendance declined from 81% to just over 36%; the only age group that did not see a decline in attendance was among those aged 65+.⁴⁴“Census finds increasingly aging church-going population; only 36.1% of Catholics attend Mass”, Malta Independent, 31 January 2019
https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2019-01-31/local-news/Census-finds-increasingly-aging-church-going-population-only-36-1-of-Catholics-attend-Mass-6736202920#:~:text=In%20reality%2C%20there%20has%20been,the%20Catholic%20population%20in%20Malta A 2022 EY Generate Youth survey found that just under half of Maltese aged 16-24 believe in God – even fewer in organized religion.⁴⁵Daniel Tihn, “Half of youths believe in God… but not in organised religion”, Times of Malta, 29 November 2022
https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/half-youths-believe-god-organised-religion.997878

Roman Catholic weddings have also been in decline since 2015, with civil unions in 2023 outnumbering religious ones: 1,274 versus 965, respectively.⁴⁶Giulia Magri, “Fewer couples getting married, with Church weddings in sharpest decline”, Times of Malta, 28 March 2024 https://timesofmalta.com/article/fewer-couples-getting-married-church-weddings-sharpest-decline.1089909#:~:text=Figures%20issued%20in%20reply%20to,registered%20between%202010%20and%202023

Social Attitudes Towards the Non-Religious

Humanists Malta are not aware of any significant societal actions against the non-religious, beyond criticism from individuals in social and national media.⁴⁷David Marinelli, “The secular belief conundrum”, Times of Malta, 6 April 2024 https://timesofmalta.com/article/the-secular-belief-conundrum.1090424 However, non-religious Maltese from religious families can face rejection, opposition, or intolerance (See ‘Testimonies’, below).

Anecdotal evidence from members of Humanists Malta suggests that, when taking an oath in court, the assumption is that one is Roman Catholic, and must actively decline the religious oath rather than being offered a choice by clerks of the court in the first instance. Non-religious participants in court proceedings are likely to abstain from this option anyway, fearing a negative bias (see ‘Testimonies’, below).

Sexual and Reproductive Rights

The current national sexual health strategy dates back to 2010. After much delay, consultation on a new strategy was launched in December 2024,⁴⁸Government of Malta Ministry for Health and Active Ageing, National Sexual Health Strategy (see page 14), 2025-2030, accessed March 2025 https://health.gov.mt/wpcontent/uploads/2024/12/National_Sexual_Health_Strategy_2025_2030.pdf proposing, amongst other things:

– free barrier contraceptives for anyone aged 16+, and funding for modern contraceptive methods;
– adding the Morning After Pill (MAP) to the national formulary to increase access (although there is no mention of non-state pharmacists’ existing right to conscientious objection to sale of the MAP,⁴⁹Laura Calleja, “Conscientious objectors have right not to stock morning after pill, judge says”, Malta Today, 28 September 2019 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/lifestyle/health/97604/conscientious_objectors_have_right_not_to_stock_morning_after_pill_judge_says#.XcNBbtV7nIU which has had an impact on the availability of the contraception);⁵⁰Laura Calleja, “We called 119 pharmacies: emergency contraception is still difficult to source for women”, Malta Today, 9 November 2021 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/113145/we_called_119_pharmacies_emergency_contraception_is_still_difficult_to_source_for_women#.YYpA8C2ZNTY
– enhanced sexual health education for children, adolescents and parents/guardians;
– strengthening responses to sexual assault;
– expanded genito-urinary care services;
– increased availability of free Post-Exposure Prophylaxis and introduction of free Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis medications against HIV transmission⁵¹Andrea Caruana, “Malta’s HIV diagnosis rates ‘one of the highest’ in Europe due to lack of free preventive medication”, Malta Independent, 1 December 2024 https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2024-12-01/local-news/Malta-s-HIV-diagnosis-rates-one-of-the-highest-in-Europe-due-to-lack-of-free-preventive-medication-6736266188 (although details of eligibility, for example for migrants, including migrant sex-workers, are unclear). Both were promised for February 2025 but have been delayed;
– increased HIV testing; and
– addressing existing barriers to sexual health care for migrants.

There are some objections from the public and members of pro-life groups to these proposals on the grounds that the strategy might promote irresponsible behaviour, damage the family structure by fostering a callous attitude to sex and life, fostering a culture of hedonism and instant gratification.⁵²Klaus Vella Bardon, “We have lost the plot”, Times of Malta, 22 December 2024 https://timesofmalta.com/article/we-lost-plot.1102685

Abortion

When Malta joined the European Union in 2004, its Treaty of Accession included a provision that,

“Nothing in the Treaty on European Union, or in the Treaties establishing the European Communities, or in the Treaties or Acts modifying or supplementing those Treaties, shall affect the application in the territory of Malta of national legislation relating to abortion.”⁵³ “Protocol No 7 on abortion in Malta”, Document 12003T/PRO/07, Official Journal L 236 , 23/09/2003 P. 0947 – 0947, Official Journal of the European Union, 23 September 2003 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/treaty/acc_2003/act_1/pro_7/sign

In 2023, abortion was legalized, with the consent of one doctor, in the case of an immediate risk to life of the pregnant person, and with the consent of three doctors when the person’s health is at grave risk.⁵⁴Criminal Code, Malta Legislation (see Article 243B, pages 122 & 123), accessed March 2025 https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/9/eng/pdf Except in these limited circumstances, doctors who help people have abortions face a maximum of four years in prison and permanent loss of their license,⁵⁵“Malta’s Abortion Law”, Doctors for Choice, accessed March 2025 https://www.doctorsforchoice.mt/abortion-law and those who have abortions face a maximum of three years in prison.

As of January 2025, two women were subject to prosecution for having undergone an abortion outside of the circumstances prescribed by law.⁵⁶ Ana Tortell, “Watch: A Woman Was Charged After Her Doctor Reported Her For Having An Abortion, Gynaecologist Says”, Lovin Malta, 14 January 2025 https://lovinmalta.com/lifestyle/health/reproductive-health/a-woman-was-charged-after-her-doctor-reported-her-for-having-an-abortion-gynaecologist-says/

Surrogacy

Although a surrogacy bill was discussed by the Government in 2022,⁵⁷Laura Calleja, “Surrogacy Bill almost finalised but internal discussions still underway, Health Minister says”, Malta Today, 17 February 2022 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/115013/surrogacy_bill_almost_finalised_but_internal_discussions_still_underway_health_minister_says surrogacy remains illegal.⁵⁸Clara Sciberras, “ ‘Deplorable’: Pope Francis Calls For Universal Ban On Surrogacy”, Lovin Malta, 9 January 2024 https://lovinmalta.com/news/news-international/deplorable-pope-francis-calls-for-universal-ban-on-surrogacy/ However, it is possible for those who access legal surrogacy in another country to register the child in Malta.

In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Free IVF services have been offered since 2013. In 2018, treatment was extended to same-sex couples and single women.

In 2022, against considerable opposition,⁵⁹“Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis ‘offensive’ – Life Network Foundation”, The Malta Independent, 4 June 2019 https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2019-06-04/local-news/Pre-implantation-genetic-diagnosis-offensive-Life-Network-Foundation-6736209092;
Vella, S. (2022), Malta: Widened access and scope of in vitro fertilisation laws, amid controversy, ESPN Flash Report 2022/44, European Social Policy Network (ESPN), Brussels: European Commission
file:///G:/My%20Drive/ESPN%20-%20Flash%20report%202022%20-%2044%20-%20MT%20-%20June%202022.pdf
Matthew Vella, “Church rallies doctors and academics against PGD testing of embryos”, Malta Today, 11 June 2022 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/117241/church_rallies_doctors_and_academics_against_pgd_testing_of_embryos;
Joseph Galea-Curmi , Auxiliary Bishop, “The sad fate of unwanted human beings”, Archdiocese of Malta, 26 June 2022 https://church.mt/the-sad-fate-of-unwanted-human-beings-bishop-galea-curmi/?_ga=2.207321371.929753308.1744105161-2121598331.1744105161 a further amendment, allowing pre-implantation genetic testing, was signed into law by the newly-appointed Acting President, the President having absented himself abroad.⁶⁰Kevin Schembri Orland “When presidents refuse to sign, or sign under protest”, Malta Independent, 31 July 2022 https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2022-07-31/local/When-presidents-refuse-to-sign-or-sign-under-protest-6736244870

Assisted Dying

Assisted dying is illegal in Malta, and assisting a suicide is punishable by up to 12 years in prison,⁶¹Benjamin Abela, “EXPLAINED: The State Of Euthanasia In Malta, Europe, And Around The World”, Lovin Malta, 22 November 2020 https://lovinmalta.com/opinion/analysis/explained-the-state-of-euthanasia-in-malta-europe-and-around-the-world/ with no public guidance or case law on circumstances in which prosecution would not be in the public interest.

Assisted Dying has some public support,⁶²Neville Borg, “Support for assisted dying still high but drops slightly”, Times of Malta, 24 February 2025 https://timesofmalta.com/article/support-assisted-dying-still-high-drops-slightly.1105622#:~:text=But%20this%20suggests%20that%20support,survey%27s%204%25%20margin%20of%20error but is also widely opposed – often, though not exclusively, on religious grounds.⁶³“Adding life to years – Church issues ethics guidelines for care for the elderly”, Times of Malta, 7 April 2025 https://timesofmalta.com/article/adding-life-years-church-issues-ethics-guidelines-care-elderly.1107794;
Jurgen Balzan, “ ‘We must strive for a dignified end of life, not the anticipation of death’ – Archbishop Scicluna”, Newsbook Malta, 28 November 2024 https://newsbook.com.mt/en/we-must-strive-for-a-dignified-end-of-life-not-the-anticipation-of-death-archbishop-scicluna/?fbclid=IwY2xjawHA7_NleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHfNHjUD1GunDzSOgwlk4vySPumPWbEPPL-FjAbdyoyvyApISYp7PlDuecA_aem_0GpHhaMh3fDuMbuOWAOpgg;
Monique Agius, “Archbishop warns that euthanasia is being deceptively presented”, Newsbook Malta, 19 January 2025 https://newsbook.com.mt/en/archbishop-warns-that-euthanasia-is-being-deceptively-presented/
Bishops’ Open Letter to the Members of the Maltese Parliament on medically-assisted dying, Archdiocese of Malta, 24 July 2016 https://church.mt/bishops-open-letter-to-the-members-of-the-maltese-parliament-on-medically-assisted-dying/

In November 2022 the Prime Minister said the Government will take a decision on the legalization of assisted dying by the end of the current legislature (2027).⁶⁴Daniel Ellul, “‘Euthanasia debate must lead to decision’ – prime minister”, Times of Malta, 10 November 2022 https://timesofmalta.com/article/euthanasia-debate-lead-eventual-decision-prime-minister.993632 In December 2024, the Government announced that a consultation paper would be released in 2025.⁶⁵ Kurt Sansone, “Euthanasia White Paper out next year”, Malta Today, 15 December 2024 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/132768/euthanasia_white_paper_out_next_year

LGBTI+ Rights

Malta has historically been seen as leading the way on LGBTI+ legal rights globally.⁶⁶Ivan Martin, “Watch: Malta is the ‘gold standard’ of LGBT reform, says UN equality boss”, Times of Malta, 27 September 2017 https://www.timesofmalta.com/article/malta-is-the-gold-standard-of-lgbt-reform-un-equality-boss.659017 Discrimination based on sexual orientation, and gender identity and expression, has been banned since 2004.⁶⁷“Equality and Non-Discrimination”, The Human Rights Directorate, Government of Malta, accessed March 2025 https://humanrights.gov.mt/equality-and-non-discrimination/ Same-sex civil unions were legalized in 2014,⁶⁸Chapter 530, Civil Unions Act, Malta Legislation https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/530/eng and same-sex marriages in 2017.⁶⁹“Marriage, Civil Union and Cohabitation – Legal Unions in Malta”, Family Law Malta, accessed April 2025 https://family-law.com.mt/relationships/marriage-civil-unions-and-cohabition

The 2015 Gender Identity, Gender Expression and Sex Characteristics Act⁷⁰Chapter 540, Gender Identity, Gender Expression and Sex Characteristics Act, Legislation Malta https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/540/eng/pdf permits transgender people to change their legal gender without medical interventions, and bans surgeries on intersex infants. In 2016, Malta was the first EU state to ban so-called “conversion therapy”⁷¹Daniel Tihn, “Law banning gay conversion therapy to be strengthened”, Times of Malta, 12 January 2023 https://timesofmalta.com/article/law-banning-gay-conversion-therapy-strengthened.1006708 and in 2023, it was made illegal for anyone to promote the practice.⁷²Chapter 567, Affirmation of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Gender Expression Act, Legislation Malta https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/567/eng/pdf

Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people are allowed to serve openly in the military.⁷³“AFM Denies discrimination on basis of sexual orientation”, Malta Independent, 9 February 2010 https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2010-02-09/local-news/AFM-Denies-discrimination-on-basis-of-sexual-orientation-270106

Nevertheless, prejudice still exists. In 2024, the Government of Malta’s Human Rights Directorate said, on LGBTI+ equality:⁷⁴Human Rights Directorate, LGBTIQ+ Equality Strategy & Action Plan, Progress Report January 2023-July 2024, accessed March 2025 https://humanrights.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/LGBTIQ-Progress-Report-Jan-2023-Jul-2024.pdf

“We recognize that challenges remain. We must continue to address societal attitudes that still present barriers to full equality[…]

“In December 2023, the European Commission published the Special Eurobarometer Report on Discrimination […] Perceptions of LGBTIQ+ discrimination in Malta remain significant, highlighting ongoing challenges despite progressive legal frameworks. The survey revealed that a substantial portion of respondents […]perceive discrimination as widespread. 20% of respondents still believe LGBTIQ+ individuals should not have the same rights as heterosexual and cisgender persons […]while 69% of respondents feel comfortable with a lesbian, gay, or bisexual colleague, only 42% would feel comfortable with a transgender person in the highest elected political position.”

Examples of such prejudice include concerns raised in 2023 by Nationalist MP Julie Zahra regarding a performance by a well-known arts group aiming to teach young people about gender fluidity.⁷⁵Giulia Magri, “ŻiguŻajg hits back at criticism on children gender fluidity show”, Times of Malta, 5 March 2023 https://timesofmalta.com/article/no-brainwashing-hits-back-criticism-children-gender-fluidity-show.1017498 In the same year, during Europride, a group of queer people faced verbal harassment and assault⁷⁶ “Malta is No’1 on our Rainbow Map, but it’s not all a pretty picture”, ILGA Europe, 15 November 2023 https://www.ilga-europe.org/blog/europride-malta-rainbow-map-not-pretty-picture/ and in 2025, a man attending carnival festivities claimed that police stopped him from kissing another man.⁷⁷Matthew Bonanno,“’Police stopped us from kissing at carnival festivities’, says gay man”, Times of Malta, 6 March 2025 https://timesofmalta.com/article/police-stopped-us-kissing-carnival-festivities-says-gay-man.1106134

Women’s Rights

The European Institute for Gender Equality ranked Malta 13th (of 27 member states) in the EU in 2024.⁷⁸Gender Equality Index 2024, European Institute for Gender Equality, accessed March 2025 https://eige.europa.eu/gender-equality-index/2024/country/MT Since 2010, Malta’s score has increased by 13.4 points, one of the highest increases in the EU.⁷⁹Gender Equality Index 2024, European Institute for Gender Equality, accessed March 2025 https://eige.europa.eu/gender-equality-index/2024/country/MT However, a continuing level of patriarchal and misogynistic attitudes to women persist, in a traditionally religious society. A December 2024 Eurobarometer survey on Gender Stereotypes found that a majority in Malta think feminism has gone too far, and women should dedicate their time to family responsibilities. 75% believe women are more likely than men to make decisions based on their emotions.⁸⁰James Debono, “Survey finds women still expected to prioritise family over career”, Malta Today, 5 January 2025 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/133004/survey_finds_women_still_expected_to_prioritise_family_over_career_?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2tX7sPs0o1wj6etfJU3INNJ_tTmur7_vAkgKvsammcdE-xbAmKfY9CQCY_aem_e54ARqame0-Z1Md_bYN8XA

A November 2024 Eurobarometer survey on violence against women⁸¹ “Gender stereotypes – Violence against women”, European Commission November 2024 https://europa.eu/eurobarometer/surveys/detail/3252 found that one in five in Malta said a woman is partly to blame if she suffers sexual violence while not sober, and one in three believe women fabricate or exaggerate rape claims.⁸² “ Survey findings exposed ‘entrenched misogynistic beliefs,’ women’s group says”, Times of Malta, 5 December 2024 https://timesofmalta.com/article/survey-findings-exposed-entrenched-misogynistic-beliefs-women.1102017

A 2023 UN working group noted that:

“we have consistently heard from interlocutors that Malta is a conservative society with a patriarchal structure holding back women and girls from finding a genuinely equal place”.⁸³End of Mission Statement, UN Working Group on discrimination against women and girls, https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/documents/issues/women/wg/EoM-Statement-Malta-7July2023.pdf

Freedom of expression, advocacy of humanist values

Freedom of Expression

Freedom of expression is protected by the Constitution (Article 32) and also by Article 41:

(1) Except with his own consent or by way of parental discipline, no person shall be hindered in the enjoyment of his freedom of expression, including freedom to hold opinions without interference, freedom to receive ideas and information without interference, freedom to communicate ideas and information without interference. . .

Media Freedoms

The two major political parties, and the Roman Catholic Church, have a high level of influence on the media; in many cases, they hold at least a share of ownership in major media outlets. PBS (Public Broadcasting Services) – which operates leading broadcasting media outlets in the country – is State-owned.⁸⁴“Local Media for Democracy — country focus: Malta”, Centre for Media Pluralism and Media Freedom, accessed March 2025
https://cmpf.eui.eu/local-media-for-democracy-country-focus-malta/ (see Editorial Independence) There are claims of Government propaganda and interference in state-controlled media.⁸⁵Mark Said, “State-manipulated media”, Malta Today, 26 January 2024 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/comment/blogs/127180/statemanipulated_media;
“ Journalist complains of interference as he quits TVM”, Times of Malta, 1 August 2021 https://timesofmalta.com/article/journalist-complains-of-interference-as-he-quits-tvm.890662

In 2017, the high profile murder of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, an investigative journalist who had been the victim of repeated criticism for her investigations into corruption at the highest levels of government, demonstrated the extent of hostility towards dissenting media from some parts of the establishment.⁸⁶Harrison Smith, “Daphne Caruana Galizia, journalist who assailed the powerful, dies in car bombing”, The Washington Post, 17 October 2017 https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/obituaries/daphne-caruana-galizia-journalist-who-assailed-the-powerful-dies-in-car-bombing/2017/10/17/c247e4d4-b345-11e7-a908-a3470754bbb9_story.htm Three men were convicted of the journalists’ murder in 2021 and 2022.⁸⁷“Two brothers jailed after admitting murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia”, The Guardian, 14 October 2022 https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/oct/14/daphne-caruana-galizia-brothers-admit-murder-first-day-trial The man suspected of ordering the murder, a prominent Maltese business man with links to the government, has been charged but was released on bail at the start of 2025.⁸⁸“Millionaire accused over 2017 murder of Maltese journalist freed on bail”, The Guardian, 8 February 2025 https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/feb/08/millionaire-yorgen-fenech-freed-on-bail-accused-murder-daphne-caruana-galizia-maltese-journalist#:~:text=Caruana%20Galizia%20was%20killed%20by,attacks%20on%20journalists%20within%20Europe His trial is pending at the time of writing. The delays in the judicial proceedings have been widely criticized, including by the European Parliament,⁸⁹ “Malta: six years on from the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia, problems persist”, European Parliament, 19 October 2023 https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20231013IPR07133/malta-six-years-on-from-the-murder-of-daphne-caruana-galizia-problems-persist and the public outcry over the authorities’ handling of the investigation into the murder prompted the resignation of then Prime Minister Joseph Muscat in January 2021.⁹⁰“Daphne Caruana Galizia assassination: MEPs take stock of the situation in Malta”, European Parliament, 17 October 2024 https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/agenda/briefing/2024-10-21/6/daphne-caruana-galizia-assassination-meps-take-stock-of-the-situation-in-malta

In 2024, Malta was ranked 73rd, of 180, in the World Press Freedom Index,⁹¹“Malta”, Reporters Without Borders, accessed March 2025 https://rsf.org/en/country/malta which noted that:

“journalists face a highly polarised environment that is heavily influenced by political parties. In 2021, the conclusions of a public inquiry into investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia’s murder listed an exhaustive list of reforms that the government has been reluctant to implement.”

In December 2024, there were reports of Government attempts to discredit another journalist investigating Government scandals, with tactics similar to those allegedly used against Daphne Caruana Galizia before her murder in 2017.⁹²Kevin Cassar, “Abela’s plans for the new year”, Times of Malta, 29 December 2024 https://timesofmalta.com/article/abela-plans-new-year.1102981

In January 2025, discussing reform of citizens’ capacity to request magisterial enquiries into alleged corruption, the Prime Minister said:

“there is a fake news blog, Shift News, who specialise in reporting falsehoods. 90% of what they report contain falsehoods.”⁹³Matthew Farrugia, “Abela vows to protect under-fire ministers: ‘They have to pass over my dead body’”, Malta Today, 15 January 2025 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/133165/watch_abela_vows_to_protect_underfire_ministers_they_have_to_pass_over_my_dead_body

The Shift’s editor is suing the Prime Minister for defamation, following his comments blaming independent media for the scandals exposed.⁹⁴Aqra bil-Malti, “The Shift’s editor sues Robert Abela for defamation”, The Shift, 19 January 2025 https://theshiftnews.com/2025/01/19/the-shifts-editor-sues-robert-abela-for-defamation

Also in January 2025, Government MPs voted against amendments to the current anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation) legislation, intended to prevent courts, and potential threats of a lawsuit, being used to intimidate people from exercising their freedom of expression. These amendments were proposed by MPs of the opposition Nationalist Party to ensure anti-SLAPP protections apply in Malta, rather than just transnationally.⁹⁵Daniel Ellul, “ Government shoots down PN amendments to anti-SLAPP law”, Times of Malta, 29 January 2025 https://timesofmalta.com/article/government-shoots-pn-amendments-antislapp-law.1104429

Although criminal libel was abolished in 2018 in the Media and Defamation Act,⁹⁶Chapter 579, Media and Defamation Act, Legislation Malta https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/579/eng/pdf seen as a victory for journalism and freedom of expression, a White Paper, promised by the Government in 2023, on reforms to further strengthen freedom of expression and protection for journalists, has not appeared. Recent reports suggest that some in the ruling Labour Party are calling to reinstate criminal libel, making it harder for journalists to report on Government corruption.⁹⁷ Manuel Delia, “Dread ahead”, Times of Malta, 29 December 2024 https://timesofmalta.com/article/dread-ahead.1102978; “Let’s hope there will be no turning back of the clock on criminal libel”, Malta Today, 18 September 2024 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/comment/editorial/131254/lets_hope_there_will_be_no_turning_back_of_the_clock_on_criminal_libel_

In November 2024, the Education Ministry announced a new regulation requiring all educators to seek permission before speaking to the media, claiming that educators’ statements should be in line with ministry policies.⁹⁸ “Editorial: Freedom of thought under siege”, Times of Malta, 9 November 2024
https://timesofmalta.com/article/editorial-freedom-thought-siege.1100748 In February 2025, a teacher was questioned by her headmaster about comments she made about the education system without prior permission.⁹⁹Marc Galdes, “Headmaster says he ‘didn’t intimidate teacher’ over SEC system criticism”, Times of Malta, 26 February 2025 https://timesofmalta.com/article/teacher-told-off-headmaster-publicly-criticising-new-sec-system.1105766?fbclid=IwY2xjawIurcZleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHRvGfMRBTDKmRP7ND24E90U04_KoTvoWL5UBoPMzBpRWkchNb4n-LfwKzA_aem_LUamNzhXrUnwauxwXrE-kw

In February 2025, Malta received its lowest-ever score in Transparency International’s Corruptions Perceptions Index.¹⁰⁰Matthew Bonanno, “ Transparency International slams ex-minister’s ‘false’ corruption index claims”, Times of Malta, 21 February 2025 https://timesofmalta.com/article/transparency-international-slams-exminister-false-corruption.1105521

“Blasphemy” Law

A 1933 law, which in effect encompassed blasphemy, was abolished in 2016.¹⁰¹ Matthew Vella, “‘Vilification of religion’ to be struck off Criminal Code”, Malta Today, 8 July 2015 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/54866/religious_vilification_to_be_decriminalised The Criminal Code had carried a maximum of six months imprisonment for the vilification of the Catholic religion, and three months for any other religion,¹⁰²Kevin Aquilina, “Religion needs protection”, Times of Malta, 22 July 2015 https://timesofmalta.com/article/Religion-needs-protection.577592 “by words, gestures, written matter whether printed or not, or pictures”, or by giving offence by vilifying those who profess the religion, its ministers, or objects of worship.

It had been invoked actively, for example with at least 99 convictions in 2012.¹⁰³“Malta: “Blasphemy” Law Ended: 2016!”, End Blasphemy Laws, accessed March 2025 https://end-blasphemy-laws.org/countries/europe/malta/; Miriam Dalli, “99 convicted for public blasphemy in 2012”, Malta Today, 20 April 2013
https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/court_and_police/26215/99-convicted-for-public-blasphemy-in-2012-20130420 On abolition, Archbishop of Malta Monsignor Charles Scicluna tweeted:

“A sad day for Malta. Lord forgive them: they do not know what they do”.¹⁰⁴“Archbishop Scicluna: ‘Demeaning God and man’ is a sad day for Malta”, Malta Independent, 12 July 2016 https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2016-07-12/local-news/Archbishop-Scicluna-Sad-day-for-Malta-6736160915

However, the Government has appeared to be wary of criticism of the Roman Catholic Church, for example in 2020 the then Minister for National Heritage, Arts and Local Government claimed that a carnival float referring to clerical sex abuse, was “defamatory. . .hate speech”.¹⁰⁵ James Debono, “Censorship in Malta: from ‘Li tkisser sewwi’ to a carnival pastiche”, Malta Today, 6 February 2020 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/100145/from_li_tkisser_sewwi_to_a__carnival_pastiche In order to be permitted to participate in the carnival, the float owners were required to redesign it.

While some objected to censorship,¹⁰⁶Jessica Arena, “Satire censored? A controversial float rekindles censorship debate”, Times of Malta, 25 January 2020 https://timesofmalta.com/article/satire-censored-a-controversial-float-rekindles-censorship-debate.765819#:~:text=A%20banned%20carnival%20float%20linking,about%20censorship%20around%20controversial%20topics others agreed that the design of the float was at least in bad taste.¹⁰⁷Vanessa Conneely, “ Banned Archbishop float will form part of carnival, after changes”, Times of Malta, 18 February 2020 https://timesofmalta.com/article/banned-archbishop-float-will-form-part-of-carnival-after-changes.771755

Freedom of Assembly and Association

In recent years, Malta has seen a rapid increase in civil society activism by Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) such as Aditus, Graffitti and Repubblika. The Government has no legal obligation to seek, or take into account, NGO views during the policy or law-making process, but any interest group is able to make submissions to consultative documents – if they are issued.

Testimonies

Mirane Vella

Life in Malta as a humanist can often feel like an uphill journey. Despite some progress in recent years, the pace of change remains frustratingly slow, particularly when it comes to ensuring fair and equal rights for everyone, regardless of their religion, beliefs, or gender.

From an early age, children in Malta are heavily exposed to religious teachings, especially in schools, where religion is woven into daily life. As someone who attended a church school, I experienced first hand how this can shape—or in my case, challenge—one’s worldview. It was through grappling with this environment that I realised how strongly I do not identify with the teachings of the church.

The deep entanglement of religion and politics here is another obstacle. Politicians often seem hesitant to take progressive stances on issues like abortion or assisted dying, fearing backlash from a population still strongly influenced by traditional religious values. This reluctance to act on matters of human rights and personal freedom highlights just how far we still have to go as a society.

Even in personal interactions, sharing a humanist perspective can invite discrimination. Expressing views on topics such as assisted dying, reproductive rights, or simply choosing not to attend church, can provoke reactions of disbelief or judgment, as if questioning these norms is unfathomable.

Still, together with Humanists Malta we hold onto hope. Change may be slow, but it is happening. Living authentically as a humanist in Malta requires resilience and a willingness to challenge entrenched ideas. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it—for ourselves and for the future of our society.

Andrew Attard Montalto

(On growing up humanist/non religious) Within your extended family you have to walk on eggshells, being very careful about what you say. As a teenager growing up it all felt a little like brain-washing, but at the same time I didn’t feel particularly discriminated against as I grew up. I think if I was in a much more religious part of society I would have felt it more.

(On Freedom of Expression) Mostly we are relatively able to express ourselves freely, but there are a few worrying signs. We regularly accept more subtle forms of violence from the state, and many people are very intolerant of even the most mild forms of protest and civil disobedience. I am a government employee working in health care and I don’t feel any pressure to not express my views, I make them quite well known; however I know of government employees who would not post dissenting opinions on social media or take part in anti-government protests as they’re scared it might affect their employment.

N Bezzina

I’m thankful that in recent years there have been significant victories achieved for LGBTQ rights, as Malta became more international and the traditional catholic church’s political influence receded, allowing for more diverse discourse and identities to emerge.

Maya Dimitrijevic

Definitely the conservativism here is being perpetuated by Christian dogma. The church and its dogmatic views are influencing politics too much.

Mostly we are relatively able to express ourselves freely, apart from a few ridiculous court cases (such as one journalist being charged for online threats after a clearly satirical comment; another’s radio station was fined when he described a right-wing personality, previously found guilty of fomenting racial hatred and promoting racial supremacy, as “xenophobic and racist”).

Beatrice

I was raised in a Catholic family and the fact that I am an atheist has brought a huge rift between me and my parents, especially my father. Initially my family’s reaction was that I would get over it, just a phase. Now they think I declare myself an atheist for attention. They try to interfere in the way I raise my daughter without any religion. They taught her religious doctrine, and to pray. Now she is 10, and can decide for herself. But when she was younger it used to bother her a lot. My family are now putting pressure on her (because they dare not to do it to me), to go to a church school. She keeps telling them to shut up because they mention it every day. It is bothering me; she is old enough to realise it is not their place. But they take their religion so seriously that it is more important to them than their relationship with their daughter and granddaughter. It is a quite common scenario in Malta. There is still a lot of exclusion by Catholic families whose offspring are no longer religious.

Cecilia Callus

I feel that non-religious and agnostic views are not fully accepted by the majority and you learn to discuss certain topics only with a small number of friends. Abortion is an example of this. Another topic is the need to respect, and protect, the rights of animals and all living beings. Unfortunately, the main local (Catholic) religion, like most other religions, preaches that humans have power over other animals, which is problematic.

Godfrey Vella

The problem with oaths is that the default is always assumed to be the religious oath, and when one is required to take an oath, they are presented with a crucifix and one has to politely demur and state that one prefers to make a solemn affirmation instead. Sometimes this is met with surprise and sometimes not. However, in a country that is quite Catholic and where a number of members of the judiciary are well known for espousing religious views, it is often felt that declining to take a religious oath will give rise to prejudice against the individual who takes that action.

My first experience of declining to take a religious oath a number of years back was that I was faced with open mouthed amazement by the judicial assistant taking my witness statement. She appeared fazed and did not appear to know what to do next until the magistrate told her she could ask me for a solemn affirmation, a process she had obviously not come across before. The feeling that this somehow casts a shadow on the intent of those opting for this is still hard to escape. What I would like to see is legislation which makes the solemn affirmation the only type of oath which is legal. The legal consequences of not being truthful, whether with a religious oath or a solemn affirmation, are the same. So why require invoking God when being sworn in?

References[+]

References
↑1	“Malta Population”, Worldometer, accessed March 2025 https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/malta-population/
↑2	Regine Nguini, “Where to find African items in Malta and numbers about recent census”, African Media Association Malta, 15 April 2023 https://www.africanmediamalta.com/post/where-to-find-african-items-in-malta-and-numbers-about-recent-census
↑3	Neville Borg, “90% Caucasian, 83% Roman Catholic: Malta census statistics released”, Times of Malta, 16 February 2023 https://timesofmalta.com/article/90-caucasian-83-roman-catholic-malta-census-statistics-released.1014045
↑4	Constitution of Malta, Legislation Malta, accessed March 2025 https://legislation.mt/eli/const/eng
↑5	David Hudson, “Catholic reference in constitution does not need to change but all religions welcome, Abela says”, Malta Today, https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/99799/watch_catholic_reference_in_constitution_does_not_need_to_change_but_all_religions_welcome_abela_says
↑6	“Current bilateral agreements of the Holy See”, Pontificia Università Gregoriana, accessed March 2025 https://www.iuscangreg.it/accordi_santa_sede.php?lang=IT#Malta
↑7	Chapter 255, Marriage Act, Legislation Malta, 12 August 1975; 1 October 1975 (see page 8) https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/255/eng
↑8	Subsidiary Legislation 464.17, Ethics of the Medical Profession Regulations, 18 November 2008 https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/464.17/eng/pdf (see page 8)
↑9	Chapter 245, Affirmations Act, Legislation Malta, 28 June 1974 https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/245/eng/pdf#:~:text=(1)%20An%20affirmation%20made%20instead%20of%20an%20oath%20shall%2C,he%20had%20been%20duly%20sworn
↑10	“Parliament Practice”, Parliament of Malta, accessed March 2025 https://parlament.mt/menues/about-parliament/how-parliament-works/parliament-practice/
↑11	Michael Falzon, “Domine Dirige Nos?”, Malta Today, 7 March 2017 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/comment/blogs/75075/domine_dirige_nos
↑12	James Debono, “ Totems of identity: Why the Maltese love their crosses”, Malta Today, 12 April 2019 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/94248/totems_of_identity_why_the_maltese_love_their_crosses
↑13	Emil Calleja Bayliss, ““L-Isptar Mater Dei Jiċħad Kategorikament Li Ġew Imneħħija Xi Slaleb Jew Xi Simboli Reliġjużi Minn Xi Swali Fl-Isptar.” – L-Isptar Mater Dei”, Kellymni, 16 January 2025 https://www.gwida.mt/mt/l-isptar-mater-dei-ji-ad-kategorikament-li-ew-imne-ija-xi-slaleb-jew-xi-simboli-reli-ju-i-minn-xi-swali-fl-isptar-l-isptar-mater-dei
↑14	“Order to remove Mellieħa crucifix reversed following complaints by cross locals”, Times of Malta, 19 August 2020 https://timesofmalta.com/article/order-to-remove-mellieha-crucifix-reversed-following-complaints-by.812898
↑15	“Government to fund Marsa Holy Trinity church restoration”, Times of Malta, 8 March 2022 https://timesofmalta.com/article/government-to-fund-marsa-holy-trinity-church-restoration.939786; “ Valletta churches to benefit from €700,000 in government funds for restoration”, Times of Malta, 10 June 2020 https://timesofmalta.com/article/valletta-churches-to-benefit-from-700000-in-government-funds-for.797598; “Government to fund restoration of old Birkirkara parish church”, Times of Malta, 8 May 2020 https://timesofmalta.com/article/government-to-fund-restoration-of-old-birkirkara-parish-church.790871
↑16	Nicole Mailak, “Vatican critics balk at United Nations health role co-sponsored by Malta”, Malta Today, 26 May 2021 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/109816/vatican_critics_balk_at_united_nations_health_role_cosponsored_by_malta
↑17	“Assisted Dying: Needs and realities of people will prevail \| Daniel Micallef”, Malta Today, 9 December 2024 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/comment/blogs/132674/assisted_dying_needs_and_realities_of_people_will_prevail___daniel_micallef
↑18	Claudia Calleja, “Watch: Doctor-assisted dying should start being debated ‘in new year’”, Times of Malta, 10 December 2024 https://timesofmalta.com/article/watch-doctorassisted-dying-start-debated-in-new-year.1102241?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2qi83-rJZnsOOI0PN-fz6WGye80HTAjt9xYMaoFKdUzId6DyraSAG0M9Q_aem_dUaqH3u_Jv9AInJ7jAN3PA
↑19	Gregoire Lory, “ Roberta Metsola on abortion: ‘My position is the European Parliament’s position’”, Euronews, 18 January 2022 https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2022/01/18/roberta-metsola-on-abortion-my-position-is-the-european-parliament-s-position
↑20	Matthew Vella, “Labour MEP makes plea for abortion to become fundamental right in EU Charter”, Malta Today, 14 March 2024 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/ewropej/128109/labour_mep_makes_plea_for_abortion_to_become_fundamental_right_in_eu_charte
↑21	Giulia Magri, “ Pro-choice activists demand decriminalisation of abortion”, Times of Malta, 28 September 2024 https://timesofmalta.com/article/prochoice-activists-demand-decriminalisation-abortion.1098748
↑22	Parliament of Malta, Motion No. 428, Human Rights and Equality Commission Bill – First Reading, https://parlament.mt/12th-leg/motions-12th/motion-no-428/
↑23	The Church in Malta, “The Equality Bill and Religious Freedom: A Position Paper”, October 2016 https://www.independent.com.mt/file.aspx?f=135324; “Unfair, unnecessary Bills”, Life Network Malta, https://lifenetwork.eu/unfair-unnecessary-bills/
↑24	Tim Diacono, “ Watch: New Equality Law Is Back On Our Agenda, Robert Abela Announces”, Lovin Malta, 31 March 2023 https://lovinmalta.com/news/watch-new-equality-law-is-back-on-our-agenda-robert-abela-announces/
↑25	“Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review”, UN Human Rights Council, Fifty-sixth session, 18 June–12 July 2024 https://documents.un.org/access.nsf/get?OpenAgent&DS=A/HRC/56/17/Add.1&Lang=E
↑26	“Pre-Primary, Primary and Secondary Formal Education: 2021-2022”, National Statistics Office, 25 October 2023 https://nso.gov.mt/education/pre-primary-primary-and-secondary-formal-education-2021-2022/
↑27	(see paragraph 7 in each document): Secretariat for Catholic Education, Admissions Office, General Regulations for Admission into Church Schools, Malta. Kindergarten 1 – 2025-2026 Applicants born in 2022 https://ms.knisja.mt/WEBSITE/2025/CHURCH%20SCHOOLS/REGULATIONS/Regulations%20K1%20-%202025-2026.pdf Secretariat for Catholic Education, Admissions Office, General Regulations for Admission into Church Schools, Malta, Kindergarten 2 – 2025-2026 Applicants born in 2021 https://ms.knisja.mt/WEBSITE/2025/CHURCH%20SCHOOLS/REGULATIONS/Regulations%20K2%20-%202025-2026.pdf Secretariat for Catholic Education, Admissions Office, General Regulations for Admission into Church Schools, Malta, Year 1 Primary 2025-2026 Applicants born in 2020 https://ms.knisja.mt/WEBSITE/2025/CHURCH%20SCHOOLS/REGULATIONS/Regulations%20Y1%20-%202025-2026.pdf Secretariat for Catholic Education, Admissions Office, General Regulations for Admission into Church Schools, Malta, Form 1 2025-2026 Applicants born in 2014 https://ms.knisja.mt/WEBSITE/2025/CHURCH%20SCHOOLS/REGULATIONS/Regulations%20F1%202025-2026.pdf
↑28	“Ethics to be offered instead of religion in government schools as from September”, Malta Independent, 24 January 2014 https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2014-01-24/news/ethics-to-be-offered-in-government-schools-instead-of-religion-as-from-september-3770875906/
↑29	James Debono, “Ethics to be option for all 13-year-olds as O-level candidates grow by 32%”, Malta Today, 21 November 2024 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/132331/ethics_to_be_option_for_all_13yearolds_as_olevel_candidates_grow_by_32
↑30	Ana Tortell, “Let’s Take A Deep Dive Into Malta’s Sex Education And Its ‘Ever-Updating’ Syllabus”, Lovin Malta, 8 December 2018 https://lovinmalta.com/lifestyle/health/reproductive-health/malta-sex-education-syllabus/
↑31	“Is Sex Education even a thing in Malta?”, The Third Eye, 7 September 2019 https://thirdeyemalta.com/is-sex-education-even-a-thing-in-malta-betapsi/
↑32	Stephen Camilleri, Guidelines on Sexuality and Relationships Education in Maltese Schools, Ministry for Education and Employment, December 2013 https://sustainabledevelopment.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Guidelines-on-Sexuality-booklet.pdf
↑33	“About that “Silent Scream””, Doctors for Choice, 23 November 2021 https://www.doctorsforchoice.mt/post/about-that-silent-scream
↑34	“It’s only right if abortion’s wrong”, Times of Malta, 7 February 2017 https://timesofmalta.com/article/its-only-right-if-abortions-wrong.638868
↑35	“Betapsi Sex Education Policy Paper”, Betapsi, 22 April 2022 https://betapsi.mt/2022/04/22/betapsi-sex-education-policy-paper/
↑36	Yannick Pace, “Education Ministry laments ‘false and irresponsible’ allegations about sex education in schools”, Malta Today, 11 May 2019 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/94915/education_ministry_laments_false_and_irresponsible_allegations_about_sex_education_in_schools#.YARbn8VKiWA; “See it here: Education Ministry publishes sex education book that raised controversy”, Malta Independent, 15 May 2019 https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2019-05-15/local-news/Education-Ministry-publishes-sex-education-book-that-raised-controversy-6736208175
↑37	James Debono, “Half of sexually active girls having unprotected sex – Health Behaviour Study”, Malta Today, 17 September 2024 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/131220/one_in_two_15yearold_girls_having_unprotected_sex
↑38	Sam Vassallo, “38 Girls Under 18 Became Mothers In Malta In 2020”, Lovin Malta, 23 April 2021 https://lovinmalta.com/news/38-girls-under-18-became-mothers-in-malta-in-2020/
↑39	Government of Malta Ministry for Health and Active Ageing, National Sexual Health Strategy (see pages 24 & 27), 2025-2030, accessed March 2025 https://health.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/National_Sexual_Health_Strategy_2025_2030.pdf; Jurgen Balzan, “Malta with one of the highest rates of gonorrhoea in Europe” Newsbook, 8 December 2023 https://newsbook.com.mt/en/malta-with-one-of-the-highest-rates-of-gonorrhoea-in-europe/
↑40	Government of Malta Ministry for Health and Active Ageing, National Sexual Health Strategy (see page 14), 2025-2030, accessed March 2025 https://health.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/National_Sexual_Health_Strategy_2025_2030.pdf
↑41	Jelena Bezzina, Daniela Attard and Anya Soldatova, “Parents for Choice: what we believe in” Malta Today, 14 July 2021 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/comment/blogs/110864/parents_for_choice_what_we_believe_invs; “KSU launches sexual education campaign to tackle misinformation”, Times of Malta, 14 February 2022 https://timesofmalta.com/article/ksu-launches-sexual-education-campaign-to-tackle-misinformation.934465
↑42	Claire Farrugia and Giulia Magri, “What the experts say about ‘State of the Nation’ survey results”, Times of Malta, 7 June 2021 https://timesofmalta.com/article/what-the-experts-say-about-state-of-the-nation-survey-results.877127
↑43	James Debono, “ Religio et Patria: Maltese in top five ‘most religious’ in Europe”, Malta Today, 25 November 2021 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/113385/religio_et_patria_maltese_in_top_five_most_religious_in_europe
↑44	“Census finds increasingly aging church-going population; only 36.1% of Catholics attend Mass”, Malta Independent, 31 January 2019 https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2019-01-31/local-news/Census-finds-increasingly-aging-church-going-population-only-36-1-of-Catholics-attend-Mass-6736202920#:~:text=In%20reality%2C%20there%20has%20been,the%20Catholic%20population%20in%20Malta
↑45	Daniel Tihn, “Half of youths believe in God… but not in organised religion”, Times of Malta, 29 November 2022 https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/half-youths-believe-god-organised-religion.997878
↑46	Giulia Magri, “Fewer couples getting married, with Church weddings in sharpest decline”, Times of Malta, 28 March 2024 https://timesofmalta.com/article/fewer-couples-getting-married-church-weddings-sharpest-decline.1089909#:~:text=Figures%20issued%20in%20reply%20to,registered%20between%202010%20and%202023
↑47	David Marinelli, “The secular belief conundrum”, Times of Malta, 6 April 2024 https://timesofmalta.com/article/the-secular-belief-conundrum.1090424
↑48	Government of Malta Ministry for Health and Active Ageing, National Sexual Health Strategy (see page 14), 2025-2030, accessed March 2025 https://health.gov.mt/wpcontent/uploads/2024/12/National_Sexual_Health_Strategy_2025_2030.pdf
↑49	Laura Calleja, “Conscientious objectors have right not to stock morning after pill, judge says”, Malta Today, 28 September 2019 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/lifestyle/health/97604/conscientious_objectors_have_right_not_to_stock_morning_after_pill_judge_says#.XcNBbtV7nIU
↑50	Laura Calleja, “We called 119 pharmacies: emergency contraception is still difficult to source for women”, Malta Today, 9 November 2021 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/113145/we_called_119_pharmacies_emergency_contraception_is_still_difficult_to_source_for_women#.YYpA8C2ZNTY
↑51	Andrea Caruana, “Malta’s HIV diagnosis rates ‘one of the highest’ in Europe due to lack of free preventive medication”, Malta Independent, 1 December 2024 https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2024-12-01/local-news/Malta-s-HIV-diagnosis-rates-one-of-the-highest-in-Europe-due-to-lack-of-free-preventive-medication-6736266188
↑52	Klaus Vella Bardon, “We have lost the plot”, Times of Malta, 22 December 2024 https://timesofmalta.com/article/we-lost-plot.1102685
↑53	“Protocol No 7 on abortion in Malta”, Document 12003T/PRO/07, Official Journal L 236 , 23/09/2003 P. 0947 – 0947, Official Journal of the European Union, 23 September 2003 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/treaty/acc_2003/act_1/pro_7/sign
↑54	Criminal Code, Malta Legislation (see Article 243B, pages 122 & 123), accessed March 2025 https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/9/eng/pdf
↑55	“Malta’s Abortion Law”, Doctors for Choice, accessed March 2025 https://www.doctorsforchoice.mt/abortion-law
↑56	Ana Tortell, “Watch: A Woman Was Charged After Her Doctor Reported Her For Having An Abortion, Gynaecologist Says”, Lovin Malta, 14 January 2025 https://lovinmalta.com/lifestyle/health/reproductive-health/a-woman-was-charged-after-her-doctor-reported-her-for-having-an-abortion-gynaecologist-says/
↑57	Laura Calleja, “Surrogacy Bill almost finalised but internal discussions still underway, Health Minister says”, Malta Today, 17 February 2022 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/115013/surrogacy_bill_almost_finalised_but_internal_discussions_still_underway_health_minister_says
↑58	Clara Sciberras, “ ‘Deplorable’: Pope Francis Calls For Universal Ban On Surrogacy”, Lovin Malta, 9 January 2024 https://lovinmalta.com/news/news-international/deplorable-pope-francis-calls-for-universal-ban-on-surrogacy/
↑59	“Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis ‘offensive’ – Life Network Foundation”, The Malta Independent, 4 June 2019 https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2019-06-04/local-news/Pre-implantation-genetic-diagnosis-offensive-Life-Network-Foundation-6736209092; Vella, S. (2022), Malta: Widened access and scope of in vitro fertilisation laws, amid controversy, ESPN Flash Report 2022/44, European Social Policy Network (ESPN), Brussels: European Commission file:///G:/My%20Drive/ESPN%20-%20Flash%20report%202022%20-%2044%20-%20MT%20-%20June%202022.pdf Matthew Vella, “Church rallies doctors and academics against PGD testing of embryos”, Malta Today, 11 June 2022 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/117241/church_rallies_doctors_and_academics_against_pgd_testing_of_embryos; Joseph Galea-Curmi , Auxiliary Bishop, “The sad fate of unwanted human beings”, Archdiocese of Malta, 26 June 2022 https://church.mt/the-sad-fate-of-unwanted-human-beings-bishop-galea-curmi/?_ga=2.207321371.929753308.1744105161-2121598331.1744105161
↑60	Kevin Schembri Orland “When presidents refuse to sign, or sign under protest”, Malta Independent, 31 July 2022 https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2022-07-31/local/When-presidents-refuse-to-sign-or-sign-under-protest-6736244870
↑61	Benjamin Abela, “EXPLAINED: The State Of Euthanasia In Malta, Europe, And Around The World”, Lovin Malta, 22 November 2020 https://lovinmalta.com/opinion/analysis/explained-the-state-of-euthanasia-in-malta-europe-and-around-the-world/
↑62	Neville Borg, “Support for assisted dying still high but drops slightly”, Times of Malta, 24 February 2025 https://timesofmalta.com/article/support-assisted-dying-still-high-drops-slightly.1105622#:~:text=But%20this%20suggests%20that%20support,survey%27s%204%25%20margin%20of%20error
↑63	“Adding life to years – Church issues ethics guidelines for care for the elderly”, Times of Malta, 7 April 2025 https://timesofmalta.com/article/adding-life-years-church-issues-ethics-guidelines-care-elderly.1107794; Jurgen Balzan, “ ‘We must strive for a dignified end of life, not the anticipation of death’ – Archbishop Scicluna”, Newsbook Malta, 28 November 2024 https://newsbook.com.mt/en/we-must-strive-for-a-dignified-end-of-life-not-the-anticipation-of-death-archbishop-scicluna/?fbclid=IwY2xjawHA7_NleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHfNHjUD1GunDzSOgwlk4vySPumPWbEPPL-FjAbdyoyvyApISYp7PlDuecA_aem_0GpHhaMh3fDuMbuOWAOpgg; Monique Agius, “Archbishop warns that euthanasia is being deceptively presented”, Newsbook Malta, 19 January 2025 https://newsbook.com.mt/en/archbishop-warns-that-euthanasia-is-being-deceptively-presented/ Bishops’ Open Letter to the Members of the Maltese Parliament on medically-assisted dying, Archdiocese of Malta, 24 July 2016 https://church.mt/bishops-open-letter-to-the-members-of-the-maltese-parliament-on-medically-assisted-dying/
↑64	Daniel Ellul, “‘Euthanasia debate must lead to decision’ – prime minister”, Times of Malta, 10 November 2022 https://timesofmalta.com/article/euthanasia-debate-lead-eventual-decision-prime-minister.993632
↑65	Kurt Sansone, “Euthanasia White Paper out next year”, Malta Today, 15 December 2024 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/132768/euthanasia_white_paper_out_next_year
↑66	Ivan Martin, “Watch: Malta is the ‘gold standard’ of LGBT reform, says UN equality boss”, Times of Malta, 27 September 2017 https://www.timesofmalta.com/article/malta-is-the-gold-standard-of-lgbt-reform-un-equality-boss.659017
↑67	“Equality and Non-Discrimination”, The Human Rights Directorate, Government of Malta, accessed March 2025 https://humanrights.gov.mt/equality-and-non-discrimination/
↑68	Chapter 530, Civil Unions Act, Malta Legislation https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/530/eng
↑69	“Marriage, Civil Union and Cohabitation – Legal Unions in Malta”, Family Law Malta, accessed April 2025 https://family-law.com.mt/relationships/marriage-civil-unions-and-cohabition
↑70	Chapter 540, Gender Identity, Gender Expression and Sex Characteristics Act, Legislation Malta https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/540/eng/pdf
↑71	Daniel Tihn, “Law banning gay conversion therapy to be strengthened”, Times of Malta, 12 January 2023 https://timesofmalta.com/article/law-banning-gay-conversion-therapy-strengthened.1006708
↑72	Chapter 567, Affirmation of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Gender Expression Act, Legislation Malta https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/567/eng/pdf
↑73	“AFM Denies discrimination on basis of sexual orientation”, Malta Independent, 9 February 2010 https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2010-02-09/local-news/AFM-Denies-discrimination-on-basis-of-sexual-orientation-270106
↑74	Human Rights Directorate, LGBTIQ+ Equality Strategy & Action Plan, Progress Report January 2023-July 2024, accessed March 2025 https://humanrights.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/LGBTIQ-Progress-Report-Jan-2023-Jul-2024.pdf
↑75	Giulia Magri, “ŻiguŻajg hits back at criticism on children gender fluidity show”, Times of Malta, 5 March 2023 https://timesofmalta.com/article/no-brainwashing-hits-back-criticism-children-gender-fluidity-show.1017498
↑76	“Malta is No’1 on our Rainbow Map, but it’s not all a pretty picture”, ILGA Europe, 15 November 2023 https://www.ilga-europe.org/blog/europride-malta-rainbow-map-not-pretty-picture/
↑77	Matthew Bonanno,“’Police stopped us from kissing at carnival festivities’, says gay man”, Times of Malta, 6 March 2025 https://timesofmalta.com/article/police-stopped-us-kissing-carnival-festivities-says-gay-man.1106134
↑78, ↑79	Gender Equality Index 2024, European Institute for Gender Equality, accessed March 2025 https://eige.europa.eu/gender-equality-index/2024/country/MT
↑80	James Debono, “Survey finds women still expected to prioritise family over career”, Malta Today, 5 January 2025 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/133004/survey_finds_women_still_expected_to_prioritise_family_over_career_?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2tX7sPs0o1wj6etfJU3INNJ_tTmur7_vAkgKvsammcdE-xbAmKfY9CQCY_aem_e54ARqame0-Z1Md_bYN8XA
↑81	“Gender stereotypes – Violence against women”, European Commission November 2024 https://europa.eu/eurobarometer/surveys/detail/3252
↑82	“ Survey findings exposed ‘entrenched misogynistic beliefs,’ women’s group says”, Times of Malta, 5 December 2024 https://timesofmalta.com/article/survey-findings-exposed-entrenched-misogynistic-beliefs-women.1102017
↑83	End of Mission Statement, UN Working Group on discrimination against women and girls, https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/documents/issues/women/wg/EoM-Statement-Malta-7July2023.pdf
↑84	“Local Media for Democracy — country focus: Malta”, Centre for Media Pluralism and Media Freedom, accessed March 2025 https://cmpf.eui.eu/local-media-for-democracy-country-focus-malta/ (see Editorial Independence)
↑85	Mark Said, “State-manipulated media”, Malta Today, 26 January 2024 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/comment/blogs/127180/statemanipulated_media; “ Journalist complains of interference as he quits TVM”, Times of Malta, 1 August 2021 https://timesofmalta.com/article/journalist-complains-of-interference-as-he-quits-tvm.890662
↑86	Harrison Smith, “Daphne Caruana Galizia, journalist who assailed the powerful, dies in car bombing”, The Washington Post, 17 October 2017 https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/obituaries/daphne-caruana-galizia-journalist-who-assailed-the-powerful-dies-in-car-bombing/2017/10/17/c247e4d4-b345-11e7-a908-a3470754bbb9_story.htm
↑87	“Two brothers jailed after admitting murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia”, The Guardian, 14 October 2022 https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/oct/14/daphne-caruana-galizia-brothers-admit-murder-first-day-trial
↑88	“Millionaire accused over 2017 murder of Maltese journalist freed on bail”, The Guardian, 8 February 2025 https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/feb/08/millionaire-yorgen-fenech-freed-on-bail-accused-murder-daphne-caruana-galizia-maltese-journalist#:~:text=Caruana%20Galizia%20was%20killed%20by,attacks%20on%20journalists%20within%20Europe
↑89	“Malta: six years on from the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia, problems persist”, European Parliament, 19 October 2023 https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20231013IPR07133/malta-six-years-on-from-the-murder-of-daphne-caruana-galizia-problems-persist
↑90	“Daphne Caruana Galizia assassination: MEPs take stock of the situation in Malta”, European Parliament, 17 October 2024 https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/agenda/briefing/2024-10-21/6/daphne-caruana-galizia-assassination-meps-take-stock-of-the-situation-in-malta
↑91	“Malta”, Reporters Without Borders, accessed March 2025 https://rsf.org/en/country/malta
↑92	Kevin Cassar, “Abela’s plans for the new year”, Times of Malta, 29 December 2024 https://timesofmalta.com/article/abela-plans-new-year.1102981
↑93	Matthew Farrugia, “Abela vows to protect under-fire ministers: ‘They have to pass over my dead body’”, Malta Today, 15 January 2025 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/133165/watch_abela_vows_to_protect_underfire_ministers_they_have_to_pass_over_my_dead_body
↑94	Aqra bil-Malti, “The Shift’s editor sues Robert Abela for defamation”, The Shift, 19 January 2025 https://theshiftnews.com/2025/01/19/the-shifts-editor-sues-robert-abela-for-defamation
↑95	Daniel Ellul, “ Government shoots down PN amendments to anti-SLAPP law”, Times of Malta, 29 January 2025 https://timesofmalta.com/article/government-shoots-pn-amendments-antislapp-law.1104429
↑96	Chapter 579, Media and Defamation Act, Legislation Malta https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/579/eng/pdf
↑97	Manuel Delia, “Dread ahead”, Times of Malta, 29 December 2024 https://timesofmalta.com/article/dread-ahead.1102978; “Let’s hope there will be no turning back of the clock on criminal libel”, Malta Today, 18 September 2024 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/comment/editorial/131254/lets_hope_there_will_be_no_turning_back_of_the_clock_on_criminal_libel_
↑98	“Editorial: Freedom of thought under siege”, Times of Malta, 9 November 2024 https://timesofmalta.com/article/editorial-freedom-thought-siege.1100748
↑99	Marc Galdes, “Headmaster says he ‘didn’t intimidate teacher’ over SEC system criticism”, Times of Malta, 26 February 2025 https://timesofmalta.com/article/teacher-told-off-headmaster-publicly-criticising-new-sec-system.1105766?fbclid=IwY2xjawIurcZleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHRvGfMRBTDKmRP7ND24E90U04_KoTvoWL5UBoPMzBpRWkchNb4n-LfwKzA_aem_LUamNzhXrUnwauxwXrE-kw
↑100	Matthew Bonanno, “ Transparency International slams ex-minister’s ‘false’ corruption index claims”, Times of Malta, 21 February 2025 https://timesofmalta.com/article/transparency-international-slams-exminister-false-corruption.1105521
↑101	Matthew Vella, “‘Vilification of religion’ to be struck off Criminal Code”, Malta Today, 8 July 2015 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/54866/religious_vilification_to_be_decriminalised
↑102	Kevin Aquilina, “Religion needs protection”, Times of Malta, 22 July 2015 https://timesofmalta.com/article/Religion-needs-protection.577592
↑103	“Malta: “Blasphemy” Law Ended: 2016!”, End Blasphemy Laws, accessed March 2025 https://end-blasphemy-laws.org/countries/europe/malta/; Miriam Dalli, “99 convicted for public blasphemy in 2012”, Malta Today, 20 April 2013 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/court_and_police/26215/99-convicted-for-public-blasphemy-in-2012-20130420
↑104	“Archbishop Scicluna: ‘Demeaning God and man’ is a sad day for Malta”, Malta Independent, 12 July 2016 https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2016-07-12/local-news/Archbishop-Scicluna-Sad-day-for-Malta-6736160915
↑105	James Debono, “Censorship in Malta: from ‘Li tkisser sewwi’ to a carnival pastiche”, Malta Today, 6 February 2020 https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/100145/from_li_tkisser_sewwi_to_a__carnival_pastiche
↑106	Jessica Arena, “Satire censored? A controversial float rekindles censorship debate”, Times of Malta, 25 January 2020 https://timesofmalta.com/article/satire-censored-a-controversial-float-rekindles-censorship-debate.765819#:~:text=A%20banned%20carnival%20float%20linking,about%20censorship%20around%20controversial%20topics
↑107	Vanessa Conneely, “ Banned Archbishop float will form part of carnival, after changes”, Times of Malta, 18 February 2020 https://timesofmalta.com/article/banned-archbishop-float-will-form-part-of-carnival-after-changes.771755

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