Imagine standing in front of a classroom, brimming with knowledge and passion, yet bound by an invisible gag. This isn’t a metaphor for teacher burnout, but a reality for educators in Malta, thanks to a colonial-era law that’s been quietly muzzling them for centuries. The Alternattiva Demokratika (AD), through its parliamentary group, Partit Demokratiku (PD), has had enough. They’re demanding the immediate repeal of this gag law, echoing the sentiments of many educators who feel silenced in their pursuit of quality education.

The law in question is the Educational Act of 1988, a remnant of Malta’s colonial past. While it has been amended over the years, one clause remains untouched: Section 123, which states that teachers cannot make any public statement that could bring the education system into disrepute. This broad, vague clause has been used to silence teachers, preventing them from speaking out about issues that affect their profession and, ultimately, the quality of education in Malta.

ADPD’s parliamentary secretary, Michael Briguglio, has been vocal about the need to repeal this law. “Teachers are the backbone of our education system,” he says, “Yet, they’re being gagged, prevented from contributing to public discourse on education. It’s high time we unmuzzle them.”

While many teachers are reluctant to speak on the record, fearing repercussions, some have begun to share their stories anonymously. One teacher, who wished to remain unnamed, told us, “I’ve seen firsthand how this law stifles innovation and open dialogue. We’re meant to inspire critical thinking, yet we’re not allowed to engage in it ourselves.”

Another teacher, based in St. Martin’s College, Msida, echoed these sentiments. “We’re expected to teach our students to question, to think critically, yet we’re not allowed to do the same. It’s hypocritical and it’s harming our students.”

ADPD is not alone in its call to repeal the gag law. The Malta Union of Teachers (MUT) has also expressed its support for the repeal, stating that teachers should have the right to express their views on educational matters.

Briguglio is optimistic about the prospects of repealing the law. “We’ve seen progress in other areas of Maltese law,” he says, “It’s time we extend this progress to our educators. They deserve to be heard, and our students deserve better.”

So, what’s next? ADPD is pushing for the law’s repeal in the upcoming parliamentary session. They’re urging educators, parents, and anyone who cares about the quality of education in Malta to join their call. “Let’s unmuzzle our educators,” Briguglio says, “Let’s give them the voice they deserve, and let’s give our students the education they need.”