STRASBOURG, 25 June 2025 – Prime Minister Robert Abela addressed the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), reaffirming Malta’s commitment to multilateralism, peace, and the protection of fundamental rights. This address marked his first official visit to the Council of Europe in his capacity as head of government.
The Prime Minister’s intervention centred on Malta’s priorities during its six-month Presidency, which include safeguarding peace, promoting dialogue, and empowering young people as drivers of change. Marking sixty years of Malta’s membership within the Council of Europe, Hon. Abela described the institution as a “guiding compass” for navigating the most pressing challenges of today.
During his address, the Prime Minister underscored the Council’s unique role in fostering unity and collective responses to geopolitical crises. He reiterated Malta’s solidarity with Ukraine and welcomed the recent bilateral agreement between Ukraine and the Council of Europe to establish a Special Tribunal. He also called for an end to the bloodshed in Gaza, urging the international community to respect international law and prioritise de-escalation in the Middle East. “Global challenges require global efforts,” Abela stated, underlining Malta’s position as a bridge between the 46 member states.
The empowerment of young people was highlighted as a central theme of Malta’s Presidency. The Prime Minister outlined key initiatives including the establishment of the Youth Advisory Forum, the implementation of Vote16, and the appointment of the youngest-ever European Commissioner responsible for youth. He also announced Malta’s upcoming hosting of the Conference of Ministers responsible for Youth this October, which will bring together young leaders and policymakers to shape a more democratic and inclusive future.
Institutional reforms were another focus of the Prime Minister’s address. He noted significant progress made in consultation with the Council of Europe’s expert bodies, including the Venice Commission, GRECO, and Moneyval. Reforms cited include improvements in judicial appointments, enhanced accountability through changes in the Office of the Ombudsman and the Permanent Commission Against Corruption, as well as the introduction of a two-thirds parliamentary requirement for the appointment of Malta’s President. Legislative changes also encompass stronger protections for journalists, the transposition of the European Anti-SLAPP Directive, and the introduction of femicide into Malta’s criminal code.
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Abela described the European Convention on Human Rights as the foundation of democratic life in Europe, and reiterated Malta’s vision for a Council of Europe that remains globally relevant. “Multilateralism is not a slogan for Malta; it is a strategic choice to advance cooperation and peace,” Hon. Abela affirmed. His address was followed by a question and answer session with Parliamentarians.