Prime Minister Robert Abela has warned of the risks if artificial intelligence is used irresponsibly and said the government is preparing legal reforms to crack down on the malicious use of deepfakes.
Speaking at a meeting with the National Youth Council at the launch of the National Youth Council's 2025 working report, Abela said the government was analyzing current laws and drafting proposals to address the use of deepfake technology for harassment, intimidation and bullying.
“We will work to ensure that our laws appropriately punish the use of deepfakes to harm people, just as they do for cyberbullying and cyberstalking,” Abella said.
He explained that while the government has begun implementing budgetary measures aimed at promoting the use of artificial intelligence, it is also working to ensure that citizens can use digital tools in a safe environment.
The responsible use of artificial intelligence and young people's participation in public life were the two main themes addressed by the National Youth Parliament in 2025. Discussing the proposals put forward by young people, Mr Abela said their input has already helped shape the long-term national strategy, Vision Malta 2050, and young people will be at the heart of its implementation.
“This is a vision that will prepare this country for the next 25 years, and therefore has a direct impact on those who are currently preparing for the world of work and starting families,” Abella said. “Young people are the catalysts that shape national policy on important issues such as birth rates, the environment, and the balance between family life and work.”
Abela said the government sees artificial intelligence as a tool with great potential for economic and social development, but stressed that safeguards are needed to prevent abuse. He said legislative work on deepfakes would proceed in parallel with efforts to foster innovation and digital adoption.
Also speaking at the meeting were Education Minister Clifton Grima, Parliamentary Secretaries Andy Ellul and Keith Azzopardi-Tanti, Cabinet Secretary Ryan Spagnole and members of the Youth Advisory Forum.
