The signing of the Third Additional Protocol to the 1959 European Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters in Valletta last September was more than a simple historic signing ceremony having taken place in our country.
It was an effective EU legislative instrument that modernises judicial cooperation by simplifying and accelerating procedures, expanding electronic and digital communication, incorporating new surveillance tools, and adapting the Convention to contemporary technological and criminal challenges.
It will go on to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of cross-border mutual assistance in investigations and prosecutions, ensuring the legal framework remains relevant in the face of evolving crime and technology, while upholding fundamental human rights.
This third protocol will create a framework to respond effectively to crime, particularly in a context of rapid political, social and technological change.
States Parties to the Convention regularly need to resort to the interception of telecommunications for the purpose of investigating criminal offences. Since the entry into force of the Convention, advances in technology and the evolving nature of criminality, particularly increased mobility related to transborder organised crime, have made the interception of telecommunications increasingly relevant for mutual assistance in criminal matters.
The Valletta Protocol is only the first step for the future of EU judicial co-operation that will be centred on enhancing digital tools for more efficient cross-border justice, combating evolving threats like organised crime and terrorism through improved information exchange and mutual legal assistance, and strengthening the protection of fundamental rights, all within the framework of an overarching EU digital justice agenda.
Key developments include deepening collaboration between agencies like Eurojust and eu-LISA, implementing e-Justice strategies, and developing robust frameworks for data protection and interoperability across Member States.
All this will be shaping the direction of EU policy in the area of freedom, security and justice for the coming years.
Italy's obesity law: a model to emulate
Known as the "Pella Law," neighbouring Italy has just broken new ground by becoming the first country in the world to enact a law that recognises obesity as a true "progressive and relapsing" disease.
Italy may have beaten us in this, but it can surely chart a course for countries across Europe and beyond.
Obesity is more than excess weight. It's a complex condition involving metabolic, hormonal, environmental, genetic, psychological and social factors. Without formal recognition, many health systems treat it as a personal issue or lifestyle choice rather than a chronic health challenge demanding structured, long-term care.
Currently, the legislation in Malta that indirectly addresses the obesity surge is the Healthy Lifestyle Promotion and Care of Non-Communicable Diseases Act (Chapter 550), which unfortunately does not directly and explicitly recognise obesity as a progressive and relapsing disease. This lack of recognition means that people living with obesity do not have equal access to quality, affordable treatment and management, thereby perpetuating stigma and hindering significant cultural and healthcare change.
Perhaps we could be the first country to emulate Italy's updating of obesity legislation and revise our Strategy for Health-Enhancing Physical Activity (HEPA) 2025-30 to specifically tackle obesity as now defined above.
Dr. Mark Said