The Institute for Maltese Journalists (IĠM) said on Wednesday that it is “disgusted” with the government’s position whereby it opposed an Opposition motion intended to strengthen the anti-SLAPP Legal Notice introduced last year.
The government shot down a PN motion to introduce amendments to a legal notice which implemented the EU’s anti-SLAPP directives – otherwise known as Daphne’s Law, named after Daphne Caruana Galizia.
“Unfortunately, this evening Justice Minister Jonathan Attard and other government exponents were not interested to speak about stronger protection for journalists. On the contrary, government exponents were more interested in speaking on increasing libel damages,” the IĠM said.
It noted that the government’s proposal was to promise more consultation – a pledge it has been making since October 2023 when it promised to publish a White Paper on reforms proposed by the Committee of Experts that had been set up by the government.
“Unfortunately, in its renewed commitment to hold public consultation, the government tonight gave no indication as to when the White Paper will be published. Government’s procrastination is no longer acceptable and it must proceed from empty words to facts,” IĠM said.
It noted that the aim of the PN’s amendments was to extend the protection from SLAPP cases to those that are instituted in Malta as the current Legal Notice affords protection only for cases instituted in foreign jurisdictions and are of a transnational nature.
The amendments also proposed higher dissuasive penalties that the court can impose on people who institute SLAPP cases.
“With regret, the IĠM stresses that tonight’s sitting was a lost opportunity to strengthen the anti-SLAPP Legal Notice.”
IĠM officials were present for Wednesday’s sitting.
Momentum Condemns Government's Rejection of Stronger Anti-SLAPP Protections
Momentum stands with the Institute of Maltese Journalists (IĠM) in condemning the government's rejection of key anti-SLAPP amendments. By refusing to extend protections to domestic cases and to increase penalties for vexatious lawsuits, the government undermines press freedom and democracy.
Spokesman Matthew Agius said: "The amendments sought to close loopholes, ensuring anti-SLAPP protections apply in Malta, not just transnationally. These changes, supported by the IĠM, would have strengthened transparency, accountability, and journalist protections. Instead, Robert Abela's government prioritized increasing libel damages over safeguarding free expression. Maltese journalists are not afforded by government the real safety net they deserve".
Momentum urges the government to stop delaying and implement real anti-SLAPP protections. 'Daphne's Law' must truly protect journalists, ensuring they can report freely without fear of legal intimidation. We remain committed to pushing for stronger legislation that truly upholds democratic values.