A lack of public awareness and education about rehabilitation remains one of the most pressing challenges within Malta's criminal justice system, according to Charles Mifsud, chairperson of the RISe Foundation.
Speaking to The Malta Independent on Sunday, Mifsud argued that many people continue to equate justice solely with imprisonment, overlooking the long-term benefits that restorative justice and reintegration programmes can bring to both offenders and society.
While acknowledging that punishment has a role, Mifsud emphasised that it should not be the only response to crime. He pointed out that once individuals have served their sentence, they should be given a genuine opportunity to rebuild their lives. Failing to do so, he warned, does not only disadvantage the individual but also creates wider societal risks, as people who are not properly reintegrated are more likely to reoffend.
"At the end of the day, no matter how you look at it, it always comes back to society," Mifsud said, stressing that rehabilitation is not an act of leniency but an investment in public safety. According to him, the persistence of stigma and misconceptions about offenders continues to hinder progress in this area, reinforcing a system that prioritises punishment over prevention.
Mifsud identified a fundamental gap in understanding restorative justice. Many members of the public, he explained, are not fully aware of what such an approach entails or the conditions it requires. Restorative justice does not mean the absence of accountability; rather, it focuses on addressing harm, encouraging responsibility, and equipping individuals with the tools needed to reintegrate successfully.
He argued that, in some cases, imprisonment may even be counterproductive. Removing individuals entirely from society for long periods can weaken their social ties, reduce their ability to function independently, and increase the likelihood of recidivism upon release. "When you completely cut someone off from society, they lose that connection. When they come back, both the individual and society experience a shock," he said.
This disconnection becomes particularly evident upon release, when former inmates must navigate a world that has changed significantly during their absence. Mifsud described how individuals often struggle to adapt, facing both practical and emotional challenges. The transition can be especially difficult for those who have spent many years in prison, as even basic aspects of daily life may feel unfamiliar.
Although the final year of a sentence is often seen as the most critical phase for reintegration, Mifsud believes this approach is insufficient. He argued that preparation for release should not be limited to the last stages of imprisonment but should instead begin much earlier. In some cases, he suggested, rehabilitation programmes should start from the very beginning of a sentence - or even serve as an alternative to incarceration altogether.
Such programmes, he explained, would allow individuals to remain partially connected to society while still being held accountable for their actions. This approach reduces the risk of social isolation and provides opportunities for gradual reintegration, enabling individuals to develop the skills and resilience needed to cope with real-life challenges.
The RISe Foundation's rehabilitation programme reflects this philosophy. Built around a holistic model, it addresses multiple aspects of an individual's life, including psychological wellbeing, social development, and practical skills. Participants engage in approximately 400 hours of structured group work, covering topics such as responsibility, relationships, emotional regulation, and the realities of life outside prison.
Mifsud highlighted that rehabilitation is not only about the individual but also about their wider support network. Families often play a crucial role in reintegration, yet they too are affected by the consequences of crime and imprisonment. For this reason, the foundation offers therapy sessions and support services for partners and children, helping to rebuild relationships and strengthen family dynamics.
He illustrated this with the example of long-term imprisonment, where family structures may have significantly changed over time. A partner may have adapted to living independently, while children may have grown up without a consistent parental presence. Reintroducing an individual into such an environment requires careful preparation and support, as it can feel like integrating a new person into the household rather than welcoming back a familiar one.
The organisation also places strong emphasis on aftercare, recognising that the challenges of reintegration do not end upon release. Through its dedicated hub, former participants are encouraged to return for ongoing support, share their experiences, and discuss any difficulties they encounter. Services include psychological counselling, social work support, and assistance with employment and education.
Mifsud stressed that this continuity is essential in preventing relapse. Having a space where individuals feel supported and understood can make a significant difference, particularly during moments of vulnerability or temptation. Contrary to common assumptions, he noted that support systems do exist for individuals after they leave prison, although public awareness of these services remains limited.
Despite these efforts, the foundation acknowledges that not all cases result in success. Some individuals do reoffend, often due to underlying issues such as substance abuse. Mifsud pointed out that drug addiction has been a recurring factor in many cases of relapse, highlighting the need for targeted interventions that address addiction alongside broader rehabilitation efforts.
At the same time, he emphasised that success should not be measured solely by the absence of reoffending. Changes in attitudes and behaviour - such as recognising the seriousness of domestic violence, embracing employment, or taking responsibility within the family - are also significant indicators of progress. "If someone begins to understand the impact of their actions and makes positive changes, that is already a success," he said.
The foundation was established in 2013 through the collaboration of key stakeholders committed to promoting restorative justice. Its work continues to involve partnerships with local entities, including the Correctional Services Agency, as well as international organisations with experience in offender reintegration.
However, capacity remains a challenge. The foundation's residential facility can accommodate up to 10 individuals at a time, limiting the number of people who can benefit from its programmes. Mifsud noted that while there have been periods when beds were not fully utilised, expanding access and increasing referrals would allow the organisation to reach more individuals in need of support.
Another notable gap is the limited participation of women in the programme. Although facilities are available, the foundation has yet to receive sufficient referrals for female participants. Addressing this imbalance, Mifsud suggested, could form part of future development efforts.
Stigma continues to be one of the most persistent obstacles. In a small country like Malta, where communities are closely connected, individuals often find it difficult to distance themselves from their past. Unlike in larger countries, where relocation may offer a fresh start, former offenders in Malta may struggle to escape societal judgement.
Mifsud acknowledged that this stigma is not unique to Malta but argued that its impact is amplified by the country's size. At the same time, he stressed the importance of recognising the experiences of victims, whose lives are also deeply affected by crime. Balancing the needs of victims with the goal of rehabilitation, he said, requires a nuanced and compassionate approach.
"Crime has always existed and will always exist," Mifsud noted. "The aim is to reduce it and to reduce the number of people going in and out of prison." Achieving this, he argued, depends on shifting public perceptions and investing in programmes that address the root causes of offending behaviour.
Ultimately, Mifsud believes that rehabilitation and restorative justice offer a more sustainable path forward. By equipping individuals with the tools to lead productive lives and supporting them throughout their reintegration journey, society can reduce recidivism and create safer communities.
"If we can help someone not to reoffend, that is a success," he said. "Not just for that person, but for everyone."