Triumph for Transparency and Freedom of Expression
The Union of Professional Educators (UPE) proudly announces its decisive victory in the libel case proceedings brought against it by the Malta Union of Teachers (MUT).
This landmark judgment underscores the vital role of unions in holding leadership accountable, be it institutional or tradeunionistic, and to engage in critical public discourse without fear of legal reprisal.
The court recognized UPE’s right to question decisions affecting educators and moreover to criticise the modus operandi of institutional stakeholders. This outcome reinforces UPE’s dedication to advocating for transparency, fairness, and the interests of its members.
We welcome this ruling as a validation of our commitment to representing the voices of educators. Our mission is to ensure that concerns affecting the education sector are discussed openly and without fear of legal intimidation.
The MUT must realize that freedom of expression, together with freedom of association, are two cornerstones of a free society. It is also high time that the MUT, as well as institutional stakeholders, realize that there is no place for tradeunionistic monopoly and much less for a monopoly over ideas and their expression in a democratic society.
Indeed today’s victory highlights the importance of robust debate within the educational community and also empowers unions like the UPE to challenge policies, plans and actions that affect educators, workers, students and society at large.
The UPE strengthens its resolve to promote accountability and foster trust within the education system, ensuring that its members’ rights and voices remain at the forefront of its efforts.
The UPE was represented by lawyer Dr Jason Azzopardi throughout the proceedings.
