The rule of law à la maltaise : selected writings of Kevin Aquilina

Abstract

In this publication I have collected some of my previous published works on the theme of the rule of law – a theme that has been central to my thought and writing for many years. Currently, the rule of law has become a topical issue in Malta that has generated important debates. This volume is intended to contribute to discussions on the health and nature of the rule of law in the Maltese islands. I consider the rule of law to be paramount to a civilised democratic society. Hence the continued importance I have given to this topic through the years. My observations give reasons for concern. At the moment the rule of law in our country is at the crossroads and it tends to be taken for granted to such an extent that it ends up breached by those same institutions of the state which are called upon to promote, preserve, defend, nourish and safeguard it. I attribute the inadequacies of the rule of law primarily to institutional failure – failure by the institutions of the state to carry out their lawful duties with full respect to the observance of the law. [Excerpt from the Preface]