During the 2026 grand finale of the “Young Parliamentarians – Ejjew Niddibattu” (Let’s Debate) initiative, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Anġlu Farrugia, delivered a poignant appeal for peace, responsibility, and the common good to be restored to the center of public life. Addressing a chamber filled with students, the Speaker warned that peace should never be taken for granted, stressing that a nation that ceases to advocate for peace risks losing its direction and its soul.
Farrugia emphasized that Parliament must remain the highest venue for serious thought, responsible listening, and decision-making aimed at the collective welfare. He remarked that true democratic debate cannot be sustained by noise or emotion alone; instead, it must be rooted in facts, research, analysis, and a profound sense of accountability toward the public.
Expressing great confidence in the younger generation, the Speaker praised the participants for their maturity and courage in tackling complex issues that directly impact their future. He noted that a country whose youth are prepared to listen, debate, and propose serious solutions is building a solid foundation for a better tomorrow.
Referencing the specific themes discussed during the competition, the Speaker highlighted the need for a wise balance between technology, student well-being, personal dignity, and privacy. He concluded by encouraging the young parliamentarians to view public life as a calling to service, urging them to use their words as instruments of truth and their presence in the House as a sign that Malta’s future can be built with dignity and wisdom.
The event featured additional contributions from the Minister for Education and Youth, Clifton Grima, the Parliamentary Secretary for Youth and Innovation, Keith Azzopardi Tanti, the Leader of the Opposition, Alex Borg, and the Opposition Spokesperson for Youth, Bernice Bonello.
