Reacting to the statement by Prime Minister Robert Abela that the Government is in the final stages of drafting the amendments to Bill 28, Lawyers for Choice have emphasised that “no reform can achieve its goals if it is not drafted in full consultation with all members of civil society, irrespective of belief.”
Calling for the direct involvement of civil society in the process of legislative drafting, Lawyers for Choice have reiterated the need for the final Bill to be in keeping with international human rights standards.
“Much has been said, though not much is known, about the new amendments to Bill 28. It is staggering that there has been absolutely no consultation with civil society, and this does not augur well for the end result,” the community of lawyers suggested.
They added that, “the lack of transparency adds nothing to this legislative exercise apart from exacerbating the proliferation of harmful misinformation campaigns by certain groups.”
In these critical days and weeks, Lawyers for Choice said that are calling on the Government to open the process to those who have been involved in the debate for many years, and work hand in hand with human rights experts, and those who will be directly impacted by this amendment.
“An open process can only strengthen the final Bill,” Lawyers for Choice affirmed. “We stand ready to assist and participate constructively to ensure the best possible outcome for pregnant persons in Malta.”