Malta: Situation of Human Rights Defenders

About the event

On 11 December 2025, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) will hold a multi-stakeholder meeting in Malta to discuss the findings of its recent report on the situation of human rights defenders. The report is based on ODIHR’s 2023 assessment visit to the country.

The event will provide a space for open discussion on the report’s recommendations and explore practical, realistic ways to support their implementation.

Who will take part

Around 25 participants are expected, including representatives of national and local authorities, independent institutions such as the Office of the Parliamentary Ombudsman, civil society organisations, and other relevant actors in Malta.

Participation is by invitation only.

What the event will cover

The meeting aims to create a forum for dialogue between authorities, civil society and other stakeholders on how to address the gaps and challenges identified in protecting human rights defenders in Malta.

Building on ODIHR’s assessment visit, participants will discuss:

• the main findings of the report
• international standards on the protection of human rights defenders
• how Malta can move toward implementing ODIHR’s recommendations in a gender-sensitive, inclusive and sustainable way

The event will support a shared understanding of priorities and practical next steps.

Mandate and background

This initiative reflects ODIHR’s mandate to monitor OSCE human dimension commitments, as agreed by participating States (Helsinki 1992, Budapest 1994, Oslo 1998, Maastricht 2003).

As part of its second assessment cycle, ODIHR conducted an assessment visit to Malta from 11 to 25 March 2023 to review the situation of human rights defenders. The resulting country assessment report outlines key findings, challenges and good practices, along with concrete recommendations to strengthen protection mechanisms.