PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR JUSTICE AND THE REFORM OF THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR: Justice Minister opens Venice Commission's Conference in London

Malta showcases tangible Rule of Law reforms

The Minister for Justice and the Reform of the Construction Sector, Jonathan Attard, delivered the opening speech at an international Rule of Law conference in London, organised by the UK Attorney General's Office in collaboration with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the Venice Commission for Democracy through Law, and the Bingham Centre for the Rule of Law.

“We are gathered not merely to discuss a concept, but to reaffirm our unyielding commitment to a foundational pillar of democracy, the Rule of Law," Dr Attard stated. He described the Rule of Law as “the guarantor of freedom, security, and the engine of prosperity," and called for it to be “operational, visible, and determined" in the face of growing democratic challenges. He referred to Malta's significant constitutional reforms and its support to the Venice Commission in making the Rule of Law Checklist more accessible and effective.

Dr Attard emphasised that the Rule of Law must be “upheld, understood, and felt" by every citizen, not only legal professionals, and praised the Commission's efforts to revise and enhance the Checklist as a “moral compass and early warning system."

Underscoring the long-term nature of democratic reform, Dr Attard added: “We recognise, too, that reform is not a single event, but an ongoing process, one that demands persistence, reflection, and the willingness to adapt over time. Over the past month, we have tabled and debated in Parliament another Constitutional reform aimed at strengthening our legal safeguards and further enhancing judicial independence."

In this context, he referred to the creation of a Commissioner for Standards of the Judiciary, a new constitutional figure appointed independently by the judiciary to uphold ethical standards. This commissioner, appointed by the Commission for the Administration of Justice, not by politicians, will be tasked with investigating ethical shortcomings within the judiciary. This constitutional development, also endorsed by Malta's judiciary, was described as a sign of institutional maturity and democratic resilience.

As the country currently holding the Presidency of the Council of Europe, Malta reaffirmed its commitment to promoting democracy, human rights, and the Rule of Law. Dr Attard's speech underscored Malta's role as a proactive partner in shaping a Europe where legal integrity is not only preserved but celebrated. “Lawyers may defend the Rule of Law, but only the people can sustain it," Dr Attard concluded.

Keynote addresses were also delivered by Lord Collins, UK FCDO Minister; Professor Kaarlo Tuori, Honorary President of the Venice Commission; and the UK Attorney General. Also in attendance were Dr Michael Frendo, member of the Venice Commission for Malta, and Dr Fleur Abela, Deputy Permanent Representative to the Council of Europe.

Photos (MJR)