Daphne Caruana Galizia

Introduction

Daphne Caruana Galizia was an investigative journalist who exposed corruption and abuse of power. Her work had international impact, highlighting injustice beyond national borders. She was assassinated in 2017, becoming a symbol of resistance against impunity.

Background

Daphne Caruana Galizia was born on August 26, 1964, in Sliema, Malta. She became one of Malta's most prominent investigative journalists, known for her blog "Running Commentary" which exposed corruption, money laundering, and abuse of power at the highest levels of Maltese politics and business.

For over 30 years, Caruana Galizia investigated and reported on corruption, organized crime, and political malfeasance in Malta. Her work often targeted powerful figures, including politicians, business leaders, and their connections. Despite facing numerous libel lawsuits, threats, and harassment, she continued her investigative work until her death.

What She Stood For

Daphne Caruana Galizia's journalism was driven by unwavering principles:

• Belief that corruption and abuse of power must be exposed, regardless of the personal cost
• Commitment to independent journalism free from political or commercial influence
• Recognition that investigative journalism is essential for democracy and accountability
• Conviction that truth-telling is a fundamental responsibility of journalists
• Understanding that exposing injustice requires courage and persistence

Her work demonstrated that investigative journalism can hold power accountable and that journalists have a crucial role in protecting democratic institutions and human rights.

Impact & Legacy

Daphne Caruana Galizia's assassination on October 16, 2017, sent shockwaves through Malta and the international journalism community. Her death brought unprecedented attention to press freedom, corruption in Malta, and the dangers faced by investigative journalists worldwide.

Her legacy includes:

• Inspiring continued investigative journalism and anti-corruption work
• Leading to significant political changes and investigations in Malta
• Establishing the Daphne Caruana Galizia Foundation, which supports investigative journalism and press freedom
• Demonstrating the critical importance of independent journalism in democratic societies
• Creating a symbol of resistance against impunity and corruption
• Inspiring the European Parliament to establish the Daphne Caruana Galizia Prize for Journalism

The ongoing investigations into her murder and the political fallout from her revelations have highlighted the connections between corruption, organized crime, and political power. Her work continues to inspire journalists worldwide who believe in the power of truth to create accountability and change.

Sources

• Daphne Caruana Galizia's blog "Running Commentary" and published articles
• The Daphne Caruana Galizia Foundation
• News coverage of her assassination and subsequent investigations
• Reports from international organizations on press freedom and corruption
• Documentary films about her life and work
• Legal proceedings and investigations into her murder
• European Parliament reports and resolutions on her case
• Academic and journalistic accounts of corruption and journalism in Malta