News
News
Throughout the years, Malta has emerged as a leader in areas of digital innovation, ranging from Artificial Intelligence to cybersecurity and data. With the Malta Digital Innovation Authority (MDIA) at the forefront, Malta continues to grow, excel and provide opportunities that facilitate the uptake of digital innovation. As part of our vision, the Authority aims to foster trust in innovative technologies, providing voluntary recognitions for such technologies and acting as the advisor on national and EU policies.
Since its establishment, the Authority has fostered collaboration with stakeholders to ensure that Malta supports innovation for all, including citizens, businesses, academia, and both the private and public sector. The Authority actively promotes Malta’s digital ecosystem on a global stage and plays a crucial role in representing Malta’s interests at an EU and international level, ensuring the responsible and secure use of innovative technologies in our society.
The MDIA serves as the National Cybersecurity Certification Authority (NCCA.MT), overseeing and enforcing European cybersecurity certification schemes to ensure compliance among manufacturers and providers of ICT products, services and processes within Malta. As a key player in the European cybersecurity landscape, the Authority actively participated in discussions on the EU Cybersecurity Certification Scheme on Common Criteria. This also represents a significant step forward in harmonising cybersecurity certifications across the EU, which ultimately support protection of consumers.
The MDIA’s commitment within the EU fora extends to the Data Governance Act (DGA). Recognising the DGA’s potential to transform the EU’s data-driven economy, the MDIA has been designated as the competent Authority for data altruism and for data intermediation under the Act. Representing Malta on the European Data Innovation Board, the MDIA aims to share best practices to ensure an advanced data economy.
Beyond cybersecurity and data governance, the MDIA also represents Malta in various international fora and engaged in shaping the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The Authority was the lead entity in Malta providing valuable input on the drafting of the EU AI Act. As technical experts on the Council of Europe’s Committee on Artificial Intelligence (CAI), the Authority contributed to drafting the recently finalised Convention on Artificial Intelligence, Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law. This Convention establishes the world’s first legally binding instrument on AI and human rights, democracy and rule of law, emphasising its ethical development and responsible use.
Fostering strong relationships and collaborating at European and international level is key to ensure global impact. The Authority has convened bilateral meetings with relevant entities in other countries in the field of emerging technologies. During these meetings, the Authority exchanged knowledge, explored joint initiatives, and strengthened Malta’s position as a reliable partner in this dynamic area. To discuss potential areas of cooperation and support international collaboration efforts, the MDIA has hosted delegations from EU and international countries, including Japan, Austria, Latvia, Romania and the United Arab Emirates. Malta collaborated with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and hosted one of the largest events, the Global Innovation Forum (GIF), which focused on the theme ‘Shaping our Digital Futures for Prosperity and Well-Being for All’. This forum brought together countries from all over the world to discuss the trends and most pressing needs regarding digital innovation.
Since 2018, the MDIA has emerged as a driving force for policy development in the area of innovative technologies. Over the past year alone, the Authority has provided 650 positions on legal instruments and documents related to this domain. The Authority remains committed to representing Malta and contributing to the international digital landscape to benefit from global expertise and partnerships and solidify Malta’s position as a prominent actor in the growing digital world.
It is pertinent that Malta’s voice is heard on the European and international stage to shape the future of cutting-edge technologies. By continuing to collaborate with stakeholders at all levels, the MDIA is confident that Malta will remain a thriving hub for digital innovation in the years to come.
Author: Nicole Pace – Quality, Policy and Coordination Senior Officer