Justice at risk : the impact of delayed legal proceedings in wilful homicide cases in Malta

Abstract

Delays in court proceedings in Malta are no secret. In fact, Malta has been ranked among the worst-performing EU member states when it comes to the length of judicial proceedings. Malta is bound by the European Convention of Human Rights of the Council of Europe, and its Constitution, to ensure fair hearings within a reasonable time. However, Malta has been found to be in breach of this important obligation several times. This report provides an analysis of the significant delays in justice within the Maltese judicial system, by gathering data specifically on homicide cases that occurred between 2010 and 2024 (inclusive), and the related legal proceedings. The findings show a clear picture of the causes of the systemic failures to deliver timely justice, which undermine the rule of law and the rights of victims and their families. The report also identifies other obstacles to making the Maltese judicial system victim-centred. [extract]