“During my time in politics and even in my last speech on leaving politics, I stated quite clearly my stand on the need to strengthen women’s rights in Malta,” he said.

Muscat also briefly opened up about his own experience facing issues with reproductive rights, after losing a child.

“I have been on a journey on the issue of reproductive rights which started off as a parent who lost a child in very traumatic circumstances for me and especially my wife.  This then evolved in discussions with many people, not least my wife and daughters, whose opinion on the matter is very clear,” he said.

He also noted that given the current state of affairs, a public debate will occur regardless of whether politicians decide to stay silent or not.

“I believe the time is ripe for a mature, non-partisan discussion on this important subject,” he said. 

“The time that if politicians do not voice their opinion, then a debate does not take place, is clearly over.”

The discussion on Malta’s blanket ban on abortion has once again piqued both national and international interest after an American tourist was banned an abortion in Malta that was necessary for her health.