Some observations on the situation in Malta at the end of a very intense week - thread.
An aspect that is not getting nearly enough attention, but remains crucially important, is the urgent need for better protections for journalists still investigating corruption and organised crime in Malta (and transnationally, from Malta).
This is one reason establishing the public inquiry was so important: in getting at the truth about what happened to Daphne Caruana Galizia, why, and whether it could have been prevented, lessons can be drawn to protect journalists going forward.
But at present, the few journalists still reporting on the riskiest topics remain at great risk. And now many in Malta - including journalists and activists - are feeling even more shaken by this week’s disturbing developments with Melvin Theuma. They need support.
One thing that would immediately help is greater solidarity among the media community in Malta. There have been some recent nascent steps that some feel positive about - but at the same time I have witnessed seemingly deliberate efforts to isolate specific journalists/media.
My personal observation here: these isolation attempts are obvious, counterproductive, and most worryingly, put people at risk. It was this same climate of division and hostility that left Daphne Caruana Galizia particularly vulnerable. This cannot be allowed to happen again.
So my message to the media community in Malta is: you’re stronger together. You can build each other up and help protect each other. You’re facing similar pressures and challenges - fight them together. Leave no one exposed and vulnerable. And at the very least, do no harm.
This does not absolve the authorities of their own obligations. Malta’s poor press freedom climate is first and foremost down to the state, and the behaviour of public officials. But there is strength in numbers, and solidarity goes a long way in efforts to hold them to account.
From the international side - we are with you. We remain committed to the pursuit of full justice for Daphne Caruana Galizia, and broader press freedom reforms in Malta. Let’s keep working together to achieve this.
I know many on the ground feel weary and frustrated that this is taking so long and there are obstacles at every turn. But the progress already achieved is remarkable - and was nearly impossible, looking at the global prevalence of impunity for the killings of journalists.
I remain fully convinced that justice for Daphne Caruana Galizia is possible. The next step is clear: the need for a Europol Joint Investigation Team. For that, we need increased efforts by states. Now is the time to move beyond rhetoric and offer concrete diplomatic support.
