Prime Minister Robert Abela on Wednesday stated that Malta views young people not only as the future but as the leaders driving today's positive change.
Focusing on the priorities of Malta's Presidency of the Council of Europe, which runs until this November, Abela also emphasised the importance of peace as a key to prosperity for all.
In his address to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, Abela remarked that in times of geopolitical tension and challenges, particularly in Ukraine and the Middle East, the Council of Europe has a role that extends beyond the European continent.
"Global challenges require global efforts", the Prime Minister asserted during his significant speech in Strasbourg. He stated that Malta serves as a bridge between the 46 member states of the Council and stressed that no nation is too small to help shape a better future.
He said that as an international community within the Council of Europe, we must safeguard peace that upholds the values of humanity. He underlined the fundamental human rights values embraced by the Council. "We cannot remain silent in the face of human tragedy in Gaza. The international community must come together to stop the bloodshed and ensure that international law is respected," Abela said.
About youths, Abela highlighted significant initiatives Malta has undertaken to amplify the voice of young people. These include the establishment of the Youth Advisory Forum, which serves as a Youth Cabinet, the introduction of Vote16, and the nomination of the youngest-ever European Commissioner, entrusted with the youth portfolio. Abela also mentioned Malta's hosting of the Conference of Ministers responsible for Youth this October, which will bring together young people and policymakers to discuss a youth-driven democratic future.
The Prime Minister also outlined several reforms undertaken by his administration, many of which were implemented in consultation with the Council of Europe, including its Venice Commission, Greco, and Moneyval. These reforms have strengthened institutional integrity in Malta. He cited reforms in the justice sector, including judicial appointments, the enhancement of the Office of the Ombudsman, the Permanent Commission Against Corruption, the change in how the President of the Republic is appointed, now requiring a two-thirds parliamentary vote and restructuring of the Office of the Attorney General to boost its effectiveness.
In addition, Abela referenced other reforms introduced by the government, such as bills to protect journalists and the transposition of the European Anti-SLAPP Directive.
He also highlighted the introduction of femicide into Malta's criminal code and other reforms that have bolstered the empowerment of women, including in political life. The Prime Minister concluded by reaffirming that Malta has always seen the Council of Europe as a natural home for the shared aspirations of humanity i.e. peace, respect for human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. He emphasised that dialogue and multilateralism have always been pillars of Malta's foreign policy, with the country continuing to serve as a consistent voice for both regional and global stability.