23 civil society organisations join the Partit Nazzjonalista’s call
Therefore, before the final vote in Parliament, the Partit Nazzjonalista once again calls for the process to be extended and for broader consultation to be held with the organisations concerned. This is the only way Malta can ensure that this law enjoys the confidence of Parliament as a whole, civil society and all Maltese and Gozitan people.
They urge the Government not to rush ahead with the Bill establishing the Human Rights and Equality Commission and to engage in proper consultation
The Partit Nazzjonalista welcomes the fact that a substantial number of civil society organisations, non-governmental organisations and entities working in the fields of human rights and equality have joined its call for Parliament to allow more time for serious consultation and scrutiny of the Bill establishing the National Human Rights and Equality Commission.
A total of 23 organisations have expressed the same concerns as the Nationalist Opposition.
The Partit Nazzjonalista has consistently made it clear that it agrees with the principles underpinning this Bill. Malta needs a strong, independent and credible institution that safeguards the fundamental rights of every person and promotes equality.
However, precisely because this is a reform of constitutional and institutional importance, the legislative process must be inclusive, transparent and based on genuine consultation with all those who will be affected by the law.
The call being made by several civil society organisations confirms that there are genuine concerns that the process should be given more time so that the proposals can be analysed in detail and improved where necessary. This is not delay for the sake of delay, but an investment in the quality of a law that will safeguard the fundamental rights of the people.
The Partit Nazzjonalista therefore renews its appeal to the Government to show democratic maturity and heed this broad call from civil society. A few more weeks or months of consultation would not weaken the reform. On the contrary, they would strengthen it and give it greater legitimacy.
Parliament has a duty to listen to those who work every day in defence of human rights and equality. When so many voices are calling for greater space for dialogue, the Government should listen rather than rush the process.
Therefore, before the final vote in Parliament, the Partit Nazzjonalista once again calls for the process to be extended and for broader consultation to be held with the organisations concerned. This is the only way Malta can ensure that this law enjoys the confidence of Parliament as a whole, civil society and all Maltese and Gozitan people.
22.07.2026