PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR JUSTICE AND THE REFORM OF THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR Minister Attard attends and participates in the EU Justice Ministers’ Council Meeting

The Minister for Justice and the Reform of the Construction Sector, Dr Jonathan Attard, participated in the meeting of EU Justice Ministers held in Brussels as part of the December 2025 Justice Council. The meeting focused on key priorities for the European Union in the area of justice, including accountability for international crimes, coherence in EU criminal law, and ongoing work related to the application and possible simplification of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Minister Attard stated that “the main theme on the agenda of the Justice Ministers’ Council was the European Union’s response to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.” He emphasised that “for Malta, the fight against impunity remains a central priority; we firmly believe in and continue to appeal for peace.”

Referring to discussions on accountability for international crimes, the Minister highlighted that “cooperation between various international justice mechanisms, including the Special Tribunal and the International Criminal Court, is essential.” He added that “Malta has already contributed and will continue to actively support these efforts, with full respect for the Rule of Law and European values.” 

During the Council meeting, Ministers underlined the importance of reinforced coordination between EU Member States and international judicial bodies to ensure accountability for serious violations of international law. Malta reiterated its support for a coherent and effective EU-level approach.

The Council further discussed the development of model provisions for EU criminal law, intended to strengthen coherence across future EU legislative measures in the justice sector. Malta welcomed this work, stressing the importance of safeguarding fundamental rights while ensuring effective judicial cooperation.

Justice Ministers also reviewed the state of play regarding the application and potential simplification of the GDPR, particularly within the context of the EU’s broader digital policy framework. Malta underscored that any simplification must preserve the high level of data protection afforded to EU citizens.

Other important items on the agenda included the fight against drug trafficking and organised crime.