Minister for Justice and the Reform of the Construction Sector Jonathan Attard participated in the December 2025 EU Justice Ministers’ meeting in Brussels, where discussions focused on key justice priorities for the European Union. These included accountability for international crimes, coherence in EU criminal law and ongoing work related to the application and potential simplification of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Dr Attard said that “the main theme on the agenda of the Justice Ministers’ Council was the European Union’s response to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.” He stressed that “for Malta, the fight against impunity remains a central priority; we firmly believe in and continue to appeal for peace.”
On accountability for international crimes, he underlined the need for “cooperation between various international justice mechanisms, including the Special Tribunal and the International Criminal Court.” He noted that Malta “has already contributed and will continue to actively support these efforts.”
Ministers highlighted the need for reinforced coordination between EU Member States and international bodies to ensure accountability. The Council also examined model provisions for EU criminal law, which Malta welcomed, stressing the protection of fundamental rights.
The meeting further reviewed the application and possible simplification of the GDPR, with Malta emphasising that any changes must retain strong data protection standards. The agenda also covered efforts to combat drug trafficking and organised crime.
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