Addressing the Parliamentary Assembly, Malta's President Myriam Spiteri Debono reflected on six decades of Malta's engagement with the Council of Europe, emphasizing the organisation as a forum "where our core values are nurtured, upheld and translated into tangible progress".
Challenges to democracy
Speaking as both "a woman and a European citizen", she stressed the ongoing challenges Europe faces, including rising discrimination, gender-based violence, the misuse of digital technologies and threats to vulnerable groups - especially children. "History teaches us that rights achieved are not rights automatically guaranteed. We have got to be ever vigilant that democratic values are never eroded," she warned.
Moreover, she highlighted Malta's progress in promoting gender equality and women's empowerment, but also youth participation, calling for collective action to defend democratic freedoms. "Change does not happen by chance. It happens when people demand it with conviction and courage, and push it forward with perseverance and persuasion," she said, adding that "democracy must be lived and sustained through justice, equality and civic engagement".
Malta: engaging with the world
"Malta's membership in the Council of Europe has deepened the country's engagement, shaping not only national reforms, but also its wider international outlook," she noted.
The President also addressed pressing global issues, such as the ongoing war in Ukraine and the humanitarian situation in Gaza, reaffirming Malta's commitment to justice, human dignity and peace.
As the Council of Europe marks the 75th anniversary of the European Convention on Human Rights, she called for renewed dedication to its core values, urging all member states to stand firm in defending democracy, social cohesion and human rights amid profound challenges.
Malta's Presidency of the Committee of Ministers
Malta and the Council of Europe
