On 10 July 2025, the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT) published a report on its sixth periodic visit to Malta, conducted from 26 September to 5 October 2023. During the visit, the CPT examined the treatment of individuals held in prisons, immigration detention facilities, and police custody.
According to a CPT press release, slight improvements were noted in the conditions within Malta’s immigration detention system compared to the Committee’s previous visit in 2020 to the Safi Detention Centre and the Ħal Far Initial Reception Centre. The CPT observed reduced overcrowding in open centres and fewer people being held in closed facilities, as well as refurbishments of infrastructure, increased staffing levels, and changes in operational management.
Nevertheless, the CPT described the overall regime as ‘deeply punitive’ and called for the introduction of a daily programme offering more activities and access to outdoor spaces. It also recommended restructuring the warehouse-style units into smaller, more humane living arrangements. The CPT highlighted allegations of staff violence and unsuitable conditions for applicants pending an age assessment, urging concerted action to ensure humane treatment and uphold standards for individuals held in immigration detention.
The Maltese government’s response to the report is available here.