Protesters Camp Outside Parliament Overnight As Anger Grows Over Malta’s Planning Reform
Dozens of activists camped overnight outside Parliament in Valletta in protest against the government’s controversial planning reform.
The demonstration, part of the Ġustizzja għal Artna campaign, saw tents and banners set up around Parliament as campaigners called for the withdrawal of Bills 143 and 144. The bills form part of a proposed overhaul of Malta’s planning system.
The government has described the reform as an effort to streamline planning procedures and improve enforcement.
However, NGOs, residents’ associations and environmental groups have warned that the proposed laws would centralise more power within the Planning Authority, restrict citizens’ rights to appeal planning decisions, and weaken the courts’ ability to overturn permits, making it harder for the public to challenge developments.
This latest action follows months of growing resistance to the reform, with another protest scheduled for 5.30pm today in front of the Courts of Justice. In recent months, campaigners have organised a series of rallies, including a mass protest on 4th October that brought thousands of people to Valletta’s streets — one of the largest environmental demonstrations in recent years.
An open letter published in July reiterated calls for the bills to be withdrawn entirely and replaced with a process that prioritises public interest and environmental protection.
Photos from Sunday show rows of tents and placards outside Parliament as activists continued to raise awareness about what they describe as a crucial turning point for Malta’s planning system.
For now, the reform remains under discussion, with civil society groups saying they intend to keep up the pressure until the proposals are withdrawn.