Ombudsman meets National Climate Action Council to discuss climate change and human rights

Ombudsman meets National Climate Action Council to discuss climate change and human rights

Published January 30, 2026

The Parliamentary Ombudsman, Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon, met members of the National Climate Action Council and the Chief Executive Officer of the Climate Action Authority to discuss current challenges related to climate change and the national response to these challenges.

During the meeting, the Ombudsman stressed the importance of public awareness of the effects of climate change and the role that every individual can play in addressing it. He underlined that climate change should be viewed through a human rights lens, noting that its adverse effects are already causing significant harm through floods, droughts, storms, and other extreme events that undermine livelihoods and increase vulnerability.

Reference was made to the recent storm experienced in Malta. Although not necessarily attributed to the effect of climate change, the event was described as a reminder of the increasing risks posed by extreme weather conditions and the need for preparedness and awareness.

The Chairperson of the National Climate Action Council, Prof Simone Borg, outlined the work of the Council. The Council is an independent statutory body composed of eight members with expertise in climate related fields. It focuses on three main pillars of climate action: decarbonisation, adaptation, and governance. Through these pillars, the Council supports Malta’s transition to a low carbon economy, strengthens national resilience, and promotes coordinated action across sectors.

Prof Borg also explained the relationship between the Council and the Climate Action Authority. Both bodies are established under the Climate Action Act with complementary roles. The Climate Action Authority has an executive and regulatory function, while the Council acts as an independent reviewer and advisor. This separation of roles allows for effective cooperation without duplication.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Climate Action Authority, Ing. Abigail Cutajar presented the work carried out by the Authority over the past year, particularly in relation to ongoing discussions on the National Climate Adaptation Plan. The Authority coordinates national initiatives to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, enhance adaptation strategies, and cultivate resilience to climate effects while advancing awareness and education.

The meeting was also attended by the Commissioner for Environment and Planning, Perit Alan Saliba, Prof Charles Galdies, member of the National Climate Action Council, and Jurgen Cassar, Head of Communications and Research at the Office of the Ombudsman.

The discussion highlighted the importance of coordination between institutions and the need to address climate change as a matter of governance, responsibility, and the protection of fundamental rights.