Attorney General & State Advocate Office Enhancing Complete

Minister for Justice and the Reform of the Construction Sector, Jonathan Attard, together with Minister for European Funds and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme, Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, addressed a conference marking the successful conclusion of the joint European Union and Council of Europe project entitled, ‘Attorney General and State Advocate in Malta – Implementation of Action Plan of Offices Re-organisation’.

The initiative focused on strengthening the functioning, operational independence, and institutional capacity of both the Office of the Attorney General and the Office of the State Advocate. Minister Attard highlighted that the project demonstrates the Government’s ongoing commitment to reinforcing the justice sector and consolidating the foundations of a democratic state based on the rule of law. He described the reforms as a concrete step towards greater specialisation and professionalism, noting that both offices are now delivering tangible results in criminal prosecutions, legal advisory work, and the State’s representation.

He recalled that the 2019 separation of the two offices was a bold reform that enhanced institutional independence and specialisation. Supported by DG REFORM of the European Commission and the Directorate General of Human Rights and Rule of Law of the Council of Europe, the project strengthened internal structures, governance mechanisms, and processes within both offices.

Minister Attard also highlighted the two collective agreements concluded with legal professionals as a key measure to invest in human resources and retain talent in the public service. Minister Zrinzo Azzopardi underlined the project as part of Malta’s wider reform agenda, noting that since 2017, 79 reform projects worth around €28 million have addressed governance, digitalisation, the green transition, and education.

The conference also discussed the next phase of justice modernisation, including the establishment of a specialised commercial court, reforms to the family court and small claims tribunal, and continued digital transformation. Minister Attard emphasised that the project provides a foundation for further progress and a modern, transparent, and effective justice system.

MaltaDaily

Photo Source: DOI – Kian Bugeja