The Ministry for Justice and Reform of the Construction Sector hosted and supported the highly anticipated second edition of the ‘Union Debate’ organised by ELSA Malta. Inspired by the prestigious Oxford Union format, this event provided a vibrant platform for legal professionals and students to engage in meaningful discussions on critical legal issues.
This marks the second edition of the Union Debate, and from the very beginning-even before the inaugural event-the Ministry firmly believed in the value of this initiative and in the potential of the students driving it forward. This year’s edition saw a notable increase in both the event’s logistics and attendance, with over 150 law students participating-a clear testament to the growing interest and impact of the debate.
The debate featured two teams of law students, each presenting well-researched arguments for and against the motion concerning whether the defence of sudden passion should be abolished in criminal law. Attendees were encouraged to actively participate in the discussion, fostering a rich exchange of ideas on this contentious topic.
In his remarks, the Minister for Justice and Reform of the Construction Sector Jonathan Attard highlighted the significance of such discussions in shaping the legal framework. He stated, “The topic of this debate is indeed a challenging one, allowing us to explore the nuances of human emotion and its implications in the realm of law.”
The minister also emphasised the importance of dialogue, noting that events like the Union Debate exemplify how the exchange of sometimes contentious ideas is essential for the evolution of our legal system. He acknowledged the compelling arguments presented by both sides, which addressed the complexities of human behaviour and the importance of context in legal actions.
“This subject was a central aspect of the first Bill I piloted in Parliament, which led to the introduction of femicide in the Maltese Criminal Code. The participation of law students alongside professional lawyers underscores the importance of bridging academia and practice,” he remarked.
Minister Jonathan Attard encouraged students to remain engaged not only in their studies but also in organisations like ELSA, urging them to challenge the status quo and complacency in the legal field. “Through dialogues like this, we can cultivate a legal system that is not only just but also reflective of our society’s values and realities,” he concluded.
The debate was held under the patronage of Honorary President Stefano Filletti, who also chaired the event, with legal teams supported by lawyers Giannella De Marco and Lara Dimitrijevic.