MALTA | Parliamentary Ombudsman addresses Social Justice Conference in Parliament

The Parliamentary Ombudsman, Judge Emeritus Joseph Zammit McKeon, addressed a conference on Social Justice held in Parliament, a yearly event on the initiative of the Hon. Ivan Bartolo, M.P., which was presided over by the Speaker of Parliament, Angelo Farrugia.

In his address, the Ombudsman stressed that social justice must be anchored in universal principles, with an emphasis on protecting the most vulnerable. He asserted that good laws fostering accountability are the foundation of social justice, but without effective enforcement, these laws cannot change lives. In his view, enforcement is essential, as those who default must face the consequences. The Ombudsman also highlighted the Office's role in providing remedies for administrative injustices and in promoting good governance, ensuring that public service and administration remain subject to democratic scrutiny.

The conference brought together a range of distinguished speakers from all walks of life, including Members of Parliament, the Hon. Michael Falzon, Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights, and the Leader of the Opposition, the Hon. Bernard Grech, with concluding remarks also delivered by Speaker Angelo Farrugia.

The translation, from Maltese, of the presentation made by the Ombudsman can be found here.

Source: The Parliamentary Ombudsman of Malta