A new institutional framework for sustainable development in Malta

Abstract

This paper recommends nine measures for institutional capacity building to be implemented by the State of Malta in order to achieve sustainable development in the Maltese Islands. These measures are also aimed at giving better effect to Chapter 10 of the World Summit on Sustainable Development’s Plan of Implementation. The proposed actions deal with (a) the allocation of Government entities entrusted with environmental functions to the Environment Ministry; (b) the establishment of a Sustainable Development Authority; (c) the appointment of a Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment and Sustainable Development; (d) the constitution of a select committee of the House of Representatives addressing sustainable development issues; (e) the setting up of the Office of Curator of the Right of Future Generations to a Healthy Environment; (f) the codification of Maltese Environmental Legislation; (g) the creation of an Environmental Court; (h) the preparation and enforcement of a national strategic plan for the sustainable development of the Maltese Islands; and (i) the strengthening of the role of environmental non-governmental organisations.