Partit Nazzjonalista launches consultation process on the Equality Act and the National Commission for Human Rights

The Partit Nazzjonalista is launching an open consultation process on the Bill establishing the Equality Act and the National Commission for Human Rights and Equality.

Through a dedicated platform, social partners, civil society organisations, experts, professionals, affected communities and all interested individuals can submit their views, concerns and proposals on the reform.

The Partit Nazzjonalista believes in safeguarding human rights, promoting equality and combating all forms of discrimination. It also believes in the need for a strong, independent and impartial National Commission that enjoys public confidence and can fulfil its responsibilities without political interference.

However, a law that affects fundamental rights, employees and employers, educational institutions, businesses, professionals and society as a whole cannot be drawn up and passed hastily, without genuine consultation.

Last July, the Government attempted to rush this Bill through crucial parliamentary stages within a matter of days, shortly before Parliament adjourned for the summer recess. It did so despite appeals from the Opposition and numerous organisations—including social partners, human rights organisations, employers’ representatives, trade unions, Church schools and professional bodies—which called for more time for proper analysis and consultation.

The Government ignored these appeals and continued to insist on putting the Bill to a final vote. The Bill failed to secure the required two-thirds majority and therefore did not pass through Parliament.

The Partit Nazzjonalista is now doing what the Government failed to do: listen.

The consultation process aims to gather a broad range of experiences and concrete proposals concerning, among other matters, the Commission’s independence and composition, the protection of fundamental rights, investigation and redress procedures, legal certainty and the law’s practical impact on different sectors.

All submissions will be considered by the Partit Nazzjonalista and will help shape its position and any amendments that may be tabled when the legislative process resumes.

Anyone wishing to submit proposals may do so through this link by Friday, 18 September 2026.

Serious reform is not built by the Government deciding everything in advance and then expecting everyone else to accept it. It is built through dialogue, the expertise of those working in the field and a fair balance between everyone’s rights and responsibilities.

The Partit Nazzjonalista therefore invites everyone with an interest in this reform to participate in the process and submit their proposals through the consultation platform.

Graziella Attard Previ
Shadow Minister for Equality and Civil Rights

26.08.2026