The Union of Professional Educators (UPE) condemns the silencing of educators who raise legitimate concerns about Malta’s education system, including recent cases linked to Circular DES 28/2024. This circular, which mandates “prior authorization” for educators to speak publicly on profession-related matters, violates constitutional free expression rights and professional ethics.  

As highlighted in UPE’s recent article, the union has formally escalated the issue to Malta’s Office of the Ombudsman, urging an independent investigation into the circular’s legality and its chilling effect on educators’ voices. The Ministry’s ongoing silence on DES 28/2024, despite repeated UPE requests for clarity, has left educators vulnerable to arbitrary disciplinary action for advocating reforms.  

The UPE warns that such policies force self-censorship, undermining Malta’s commitment to democratic dialogue. Educators have a duty to highlight systemic flaws—from flawed assessment models to resource shortages—that directly impact students. By stifling criticism, authorities jeopardize trust in the education sector.  

The Ombudsman’s intervention is critical to safeguarding professionals’ rights. Educators must be empowered to contribute to policy debates, not muzzled by opaque directives. The UPE urges the Ministry to retract DES 28/2024 and adopt transparent safeguards aligning with Malta’s anti-censorship principles.