Malta’s Teachers Demand Repeal of Colonial-Era Gag Law
In the heart of Malta’s capital, Valletta, teachers gathered outside the Parliament building, their voices echoing through the historic streets. They held up placards, not with demands for higher salaries or better working conditions, but with a simple yet powerful message: “Lift the colonial-era gag on teachers immediately.”
Colonial-Era Law Silences Educators
The law in question, the Education Act of 1988, has a clause that dates back to British colonial rule. Section 215 makes it an offense for a teacher to publish or communicate any statement that is critical of the government, the education system, or any other matter related to their work. The penalty? Up to two years in prison.
This colonial-era gag order has been largely forgotten, gathering dust on the statute books. Until now. The teachers, represented by the Malta Union of Teachers (MUT), are demanding its repeal, arguing that it stifles academic freedom and inhibits open dialogue about education.
ADPD Joins the Call for Repeal
The Alternattiva Demokratika – Port ta’ l-Advokata tas-Sozjali (ADPD) has thrown its weight behind the teachers’ cause. “This law is a remnant of our colonial past,” said ADPD’s education spokesperson, Carmel Cachia. “It has no place in a democratic Malta. We call on the government to lift this gag immediately.”
Cachia pointed out that the law not only silences teachers but also stifles meaningful debate about education. “How can we have a strong education system if those who are closest to it, our teachers, are afraid to speak out?”
Government Response and Public Reaction
The government has so far been non-committal, with a spokesperson stating that the matter is being “looked into.” However, the public reaction has been swift and supportive of the teachers. Social media has been flooded with posts backing the #LiftTheGag campaign, with many calling for the law to be repealed.
Educator and blogger, Joe Borg, summed up the sentiment of many when he said, “Teachers should be free to discuss and debate the issues they face in the classroom. This law is a barrier to that, and it needs to go.”
