The Price of Investigative Journalism — with Paul Caruana Galizia and Faisal Al Yafai
Sep 13, 2024
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In this compelling discussion, Paul Caruana Galizia, whose mother was assassinated for her investigative work in Malta, joins journalist Faisal Al Yafai. They delve into the dangerous world of investigative journalism, revealing the emotional and professional toll it takes. Paul shares his journey from grief to becoming a voice against corruption, while exploring Malta's complex socio-political landscape post-decolonization. They also discuss the vital role of storytelling in honoring legacies and the ongoing fight against political corruption.
Paul Caruana Galizia's transition to investigative journalism after his mother's assassination underscores how personal tragedy can fuel a commitment to hold power accountable.
The discussion highlights the interconnectedness of corruption and free press challenges in Malta and Europe, emphasizing the ongoing need for transparency and accountability in governance.
Deep dives
Paul's Transformation into Journalism
After the assassination of his mother, Paul Karuana Galizia transitioned from a career path in economics to become an investigative journalist. Prior to this tragic event, he hesitated to enter journalism, wanting to distance himself from his mother's legacy and avoid the danger associated with her work. However, the horrific nature of her death ignited a sense of purpose within him, compelling him to continue the journalistic endeavors she had begun. This shift demonstrates how a personal tragedy can redirect one's life toward a greater cause, especially when that cause involves holding power to account.
The Culture and Politics of Malta
Malta's small geographic size and population fostered a tightly-knit society rife with political and social tensions. Growing up in an environment where everyone knew each other shaped the dynamics of journalism, as reporters often faced pressure to navigate personal relationships while investigating powerful figures. The island's complex history, marked by colonialism and transformation toward democracy, also contributed to a culture where political corruption and state capture became prevalent. This background sets the stage for understanding both Daphne’s courageous journalism and the severe backlash she faced as she challenged the status quo.
The Impact of Daphne Galizia's Assassination
Daphne Caruana Galizia's assassination in 2017 made headlines worldwide and led to widespread outrage over the state of press freedom in Malta. Following her death, Paul and his brothers took significant steps to ensure that their mother’s investigative work continued through collaborations such as The Daphne Project, which emerged to investigate and report on the issues she had tackled. The results of these investigations revealed deep-seated corruption within the Maltese government, leading to arrests and public protests that signaled a watershed moment in Maltese civil society. The ongoing quest for justice highlights the perilous environment for journalists and the significance of their role in safeguarding democracy.
Continuing the Legacy of Investigative Journalism
Paul's commitment to journalism extends beyond his mother's legacy, as he explores broader issues of corruption and power dynamics within Europe. Investigating how Russian influence intersects with local politics in London has allowed him to draw parallels between the systemic issues in Malta and those observed elsewhere. He emphasizes the importance of addressing vulnerabilities within governmental systems and holds a critical view of unchecked executive power. Through his work, Paul aims to honor Daphne's legacy by striving for accountability and transparency, demonstrating that investigative journalism remains vital in the fight against corruption.
For this first episode of the new season of The Lede, New Lines’ Faisal Al Yafai sits down with journalist Paul Caruana Galizia, whose mother was murdered in Malta as a result of her reporting, to discuss the importance of investigative journalism and the terrible price it can exact.
Produced by Finbar Anderson
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