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Malta drops to 84th place in World Press Freedom Index

Malta drops to 84th place in World Press Freedom Index
May 3 2023 Share

According to the newly released World Press Freedom index for 2023, published by Reporters Without Borders, Malta dropped to 84th place, placing in a ‘problematic situation’. 

Malta is currently between Chile and Guinea, with the Mediterranean island registering a 59.76 Global Score. 

In 2022, Malta was in 78th place, having improved from 81st place. However, this year saw the trend dropping lower to 84. 

The report outlines how journalists in the country ‘have to cope with a highly polarised environment under the strong influence of political parties. In 2021, a public inquiry into the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia was concluded, listing a comprehensive set of reforms the government has been reluctant to implement.’ 

Meanwhile, countries like Norway, Ireland, Denmark and Sweden enjoy ranks of 1st to 4th place respectively. 

On the other side of the coin, North Korea registered the worst ranking at 180th place. This was followed by China, Vietnam and Iran at 179, 178 and 177 respectively.

What do you make of this?

#MaltaDaily 

PN MP calls out lack of response over Jean Paul Sofia tragedy

PN MP calls out lack of response over Jean Paul Sofia tragedy
May 3 2023 Share

PN MP Jerome Caruana Cilia took to social media to highlight how 5 long months of sorrow have passed since the death of Jean Paul Sofia in a Corradino building. 

And yet, no response has been issued over who is responsible and what actions will be taken. The tragedy that took Sofia’s life occurred on the 3rd of December 2022, leading to Robert Abela’s government to open a magisterial inquiry despite calls for a public inquiry. 

Caruana Cilia wrote in a caption attached to a photo wherein he stands alongside Isabelle Bonnici, Sofia’s mother, in front of the Worker’s Memorial in Imsida; 

‘Isabelle, we will not abandon you in this work towards the truth and justice. We continue this walk with you towards justice.’

‘We insist on the government in the name of this family, but also in the name of the Maltese and Gozitan public, that a public inquiry is opened’ said the politician. 

#MaltaDaily 

James Catering Events & Villa Blanche create the ultimate venue

James Catering Events & Villa Blanche create the ultimate venue
May 3 2023 Share

Two of the most well-known and respected names in the events industry, Villa Blanche and James Catering events, have come together to create the most exceptional venue in Malta yet. 

Villa Blanche has recently undergone a stunning elevation, elevating its gardens, bridal suite as well as the indoor layout to new heights. 

The venue now boasts a sophisticated interior design, ‘catering to the tastes of the modern generation while still paying homage to local event traditions.’ 

The venue is perfect for hosting corporate or private events of any kind, ensuring that the guests are satisfied with the best service on the island. 

#MaltaDaily 

Messi suspended for 2 weeks from PSG for unauthorised Saudi trip

Messi suspended for 2 weeks from PSG for unauthorised Saudi trip
May 3 2023 Share

Football star Lionel Messi has been suspended by Paris St-Germain for two weeks after an unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia this week. 

The Argentinian captain was not be able to train or play for the team during the period of his suspension, with the trip following PSG’s defeat by Lorient last Sunday. 

 

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A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi)

The football star reportedly asked for permission to carry out commercial work through the journey but was refused by PSG. 

Messi has a role as a tourism ambassador for Saudi Arabia, with his two-year contract with PSG expiring this summer. His trip has reportedly been postponed twice due to team defeats. 

The 35-year-old player was pictured in Riyadh on Monday, but his trip to Saudi Arabia means that he will miss the upcoming Ligue 1 matches against Troyes and Ajaccio. 

This also comes as Saudi club Al Hilal plan on signing Messi on this summer, being ready to pay a whopping £400 million for just one season. 

#MaltaDaily