Parliament Approves Electronic Monitoring Reform In Malta

Parliament has approved new legislation introducing electronic monitoring in Malta, marking a major step in the country’s justice reform efforts.

The system will be rolled out gradually in the coming weeks and aims to modernise correctional services while balancing community safety and offender rehabilitation.

The reform allows courts to impose electronic tagging as an alternative to imprisonment for minor offences under one year, and extends to individuals on parole or temporary prison leave. It also includes protective measures for victims of domestic violence.

Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri, who presented the law, said the reform keeps victims at the centre of the justice process, noting it complements initiatives like the newly established Crime Victims Agency.

Key features of the reform include: The use of electronic monitoring in certain cases as an alternative to imprisonment for minor offences (under one year), Specific support measures for victims of domestic violence, Introduction of electronic tagging in existing processes like parole and temporary prison leave, Reduced risk of reoffending within a controlled environment, Enhanced sense of safety within communities, Improved conditions for rehabilitation with flexible, case-sensitive monitoring.

“This system strengthens both public safety and rehabilitation efforts,” Camilleri stated, “It is a fair, modern tool that supports reintegration while safeguarding communities.”

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