Malta News Briefing – Friday 5 December 2025

MEP Daniel Attard Presents Report on Sustainable Tourism: MEP Daniel Attard has presented his sustainable tourism report to the European Parliament, earning strong cross-party backing and positive feedback from the European Commission. According to the Partit Laburista, this signals that Malta is being given priority attention in Brussels. The report highlights key challenges and opportunities for countries and isolated regions, including issues of connectivity and tourism quality. It now advances to the European Parliament and is expected to help shape the EU’s sustainable tourism strategy, set for publication mid-next year. (TVM News)

Government Launches Social Media Green Paper to Boost Protection for Children and Vulnerable Users: The government has issued a Social Media Green Paper to guide public consultation on strengthening protections for children, adolescents and other vulnerable groups. Children’s Rights Minister Michael Falzon said confusion remains around regulatory age limits and highlighted pressures linked to perfection and cyberbullying. Parliamentary Secretary Rebecca Buttigieg noted that while social media brings benefits, its global nature complicates regulation. A technical committee is preparing recommendations on safeguarding users and improving digital education. Buttigieg stressed that any reform must respect freedom of expression. Consultation runs until 27 February 2026. (Times of Malta)

EU Ministers Back Status Quo on VRT After Malta Pushback: EU transport ministers have agreed that vehicle roadworthiness tests will remain unchanged, Transport Minister Chris Bonett announced. VRTs will continue after four years and then every two years, with classic cars exempt. The decision follows concerns raised in Malta after a proposal suggested annual tests for cars over 10 years old. Bonett said the outcome shows that “quiet work” prevailed despite premature media pressure. He urged Maltese MEPs to back the government’s position as negotiations continue. The proposal still requires European Parliament approval. (Times of Malta)

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