STRASBOURG, 4 June 2025 — Malta presided over the official opening of the 35th-anniversary celebration of the Venice Commission in Strasbourg, reaffirming its enduring commitment to democratic reform and constitutional governance across Europe.
During the event, Maltese Minister for Justice and Reform of the Construction Sector, Hon. Jonathan Attard, praised the Venice Commission as “the constitutional conscience of the continent” and a cornerstone of democratic stability. He underscored the Commission’s continued significance, asserting its role as a guiding force throughout Europe’s institutional transitions and challenges over the past thirty-five years.
Founded in 1990, the Venice Commission has been instrumental in promoting constitutional reform and the rule of law in Europe. As one of its founding member states, Malta has closely collaborated with the Commission to implement significant judicial and constitutional reforms in recent years.
“These reforms have strengthened institutional independence, enhanced transparency and increased public trust in Malta’s justice system,” Hon. Attard noted. He emphasised that reform is a continuous effort, with further constitutional amendments currently under discussion in the Maltese Parliament, building on recommendations provided by the Commission.
Hon. Attard reiterated Malta’s strong alignment with the principles of democracy, human rights and innovation. He highlighted the rising importance of digital tools in modernising justice systems and addressing emerging threats, such as cybercrime.
A key highlight of the anniversary celebration was the official launch of the exhibition “A User’s Guide to the Rule of Law”. This engaging display featured striking illustrations by Maltese artist Nadine Theuma, which creatively illustrated five fundamental principles: legality, legal certainty, prevention of abuse of power, equality and access to independent and impartial justice.
