The Peace Laboratory of Ħal Far has urged the contenders in the Labour Party's leadership race to commit themselves to the provisions of the Constitution particularly the clause on Malta's neutrality.

The Constitution describes Malta as a state actively pursuing peace, security and social progress among all nations by adhering to a policy of non-alignment and refusing to participate in any military alliance, the Peace Lab said. It urged the candidates not to collaborate in the dilution of any of the relevant clauses under the pretext of "updating" the Constitution.

The MLP ought to commit itself to withdraw Malta from programmes like the Partnership for Peace should it be elected to office.

It also called on the contenders to ensure that the European Union does not turn into a military power, but to pursue the goals of peace, development and social and international justice.