Malta’s Corruption Problem: A Nation at a Crossroads

Malta’s score on the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) has been declining for years, reflecting a severe corruption crisis in the Mediterranean island nation. With a dismal score of 53 out of 100 on the 2020 CPI, Malta is far below the Western European average. Two pressing questions arise: why is corruption still rampant in Malta, and what should its government do to address it?

The State of Corruption in Malta

Malta’s future hangs in the balance as it navigates its role within the EU and its commitment to upholding a transnational reputation as a Mediterranean tax haven, a golden ticket to Europe dispenser, and a nation that has failed to protect free speech. The assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia and subsequent public inquiry exposed high-level corruption among Malta’s wealthy and political elite, highlighting the country’s priorities and responsibilities towards its citizens.

Root Causes of Corruption

Two root issues hinder Malta’s progress: the weak rule of law and the commodification of corrupt practices as a cornerstone of the economy. The Maltese justice system is plagued by pressures on judicial independence and lengthy proceedings, with an average duration of over 2,000 days for money-laundering cases.

• Recent judicial reforms aimed to address these issues, but they fall short of ensuring full independence from the legislative and executive branches.
• The country’s reliance on corruption-facilitating activities is a major concern. Malta’s golden visa scheme has made it a hub for foreign investment through passport and visa sales, undermining EU citizenship values.

A Crossroads for Malta

Malta’s membership in the EU obliges it to respect its fellow member states’ values. EU Commissioner for Justice Didier Reynders has warned that Malta’s passport scheme “undermines the essence of EU citizenship,” echoing Commission President Ursula Van Der Leyen’s sentiments. The nation is at a crossroads, torn between its desire to be part of the EU without respecting its core values.

A Path Forward

Malta’s path forward will determine whether corruption continues to flourish unchecked, harming both its people and European neighbors. The country must prioritize addressing its corruption problem and reorienting its economy towards transparency and accountability.

• Replace Malta’s golden visa scheme with viable economic alternatives to sustain a free market economy rather than a back-ally one.
• Prioritize addressing the weak rule of law and commodification of corrupt practices as a cornerstone of the economy.
• Demonstrate commitment to upholding EU values, including respect for judicial independence and transparency in governance.

Anything less would be a betrayal of its citizens’ trust and a threat to its very membership in the EU. Malta’s future hangs in the balance; it is time for the nation to take concrete steps towards addressing its corruption problem and reasserting its commitment to democratic values.