Personal attacks undermine society’s wellbeing

It is becoming increasingly clear that, unfortunately, there is a lack of skills in the way we communicate our ideas.

Together with the existing political polarisation, this situation is leading to spaces and communication tools being used by some, anonymously or otherwise, to humiliate, ridicule, intimidate, and discredit individuals and their families, by intruding in their private lives.

This is social violence that must be condemned without reservation; violence that attacks human dignity, undermines the social fabric, stifles true communication, scares innocent people, and distances others from public life. It also creates a culture of hatred and psychological violence, that undermines the solidarity, for which Maltese people are renowned.

I reiterate my speech delivered on Republic Day 2015, on the right to freedom of thought and expression, emphasising that, while the Republic upholds Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, there are ethical limits to this right.

The fact that there are a number of people who participate, actively or silently, in these anti-social and unethical acts, shows there is much to be done, so that the tools that have the potential to foster positive dialogue are no longer used, to bring division, pain and fear.

I appeal to all Maltese and Gozitans of good will, to use social media, and other tools and opportunities, to remind and educate one another about more ethical relationships and communication, and to participate in social dialogue that stimulates thought, without causing fear.
Social Communication that is ethically productive, encourages people to actively participate in democratic dialogue.

I call on political parties and public bodies not to protect, directly or indirectly, any individuals who avail themselves of social communication tools to shatter people’s private lives and families.

This strategy of shattering private lives attacks and undermines the social fabric of society, which hurts us all, prohibiting the essential components of reality, of truth and of dignity. Overall, this strategy is anti-educational, and will only ensure that our children grow up with the belief that freedom of expression has no limits or rules.

This is one of the worst legacies that we can leave to our children.

Therefore, let me encourage all Maltese and Gozitans, who believe in solidarity and unity, and in those other values that can strengthen us as a people, to work together to build respect, tolerance and dignity among us.