The European Parliament will hold a debate on Tuesday October 21 to mark the anniversary of the assassination of Maltese journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia and Malta's ongoing rule-of-law backsliding.

The debate is being held following an agreement that was reached by political groups in the European Parliament, the European People's Party said.

It will take place during the October II plenary session and will focus on media freedom, anti-corruption enforcement, and the urgent need for accountability in Malta.

David Casa, the head of the Maltese delegation in the European Parliament said: "Eight years on from Daphne's assassination, Malta's rule-of-law crisis continues to cast a long shadow. By holding this debate, the European Parliament is making clear that the fight against impunity and corruption remains high on the EU's agenda. We will not allow complacency. Daphne's legacy demands action."

Casa stressed that the Parliament's commemoration will be both a tribute to Daphne's courage and a call to defend European values.

In addition, Casa confirmed that the Daphne Caruana Galizia Prize for Journalism will be awarded at the European Parliament on the same day. The prize honours outstanding investigative journalism across Europe and keeps Daphne's spirit alive through the work of today's journalists.