GWU brings together key institutions under one roof to strengthen awareness of the rights and responsibilities of third-country nationals
GWU emphasises equal rights, responsibilities and integration for third-country nationals
– GWU Secretary General Kevin Camilleri
The Secretary General of the General Workers’ Union (GWU), Kevin Camilleri, emphasised that every worker deserves to be treated with dignity, fairness and respect, regardless of nationality, religion or background.
Speaking during a conference organised by the GWU under the theme “Staying in Malta… Endorse Your Rights and Duties”, Camilleri acknowledged the essential contribution of third-country nationals (TCNs) to Malta’s economy, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, construction, manufacturing and transport.
He stressed that rights and responsibilities must go hand in hand, maintaining that foreign workers should enjoy the same protections, fair working conditions and opportunities as Maltese and European workers. At the same time, those who choose to live and work in Malta have a responsibility to respect the country’s laws, culture and communities.
Camilleri also expressed the GWU’s concern about cases of exploitation, including unfair wages, excessive working hours, illegal salary deductions and inadequate accommodation conditions. He maintained that such practices not only harm the workers affected but also undermine labour standards and create unfair competition.
Referring to Budget 2027, Camilleri reiterated the need for a more sustainable approach to labour migration, supported by greater investment in training, skills development, productivity and more effective regulation of foreign worker recruitment practices.
He emphasised that economic growth must be accompanied by decent working conditions, effective integration and stronger enforcement against all forms of abuse.
“For the GWU, a worker is a worker, regardless of where they come from. We want a labour market that safeguards human dignity, promotes integration and creates fair opportunities for everyone,” was Camilleri’s central message.
He concluded by reaffirming the GWU’s commitment to remaining the voice of all workers, Maltese and foreign alike, while continuing to promote solidarity, inclusion and social justice.
Rights and responsibilities must go hand in hand
– GWU Deputy Secretary General Kevin Abela
The Deputy Secretary General of the General Workers’ Union (GWU), Kevin Abela, highlighted the importance of ensuring that third-country nationals (TCNs) receive the respect, protection and opportunities they deserve, while also recognising their responsibilities towards the country in which they live and work.
He acknowledged the significant contribution these workers make to Malta’s economy, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, elderly care, hospitality, construction and transport.
Referring to Budget 2027, Abela stated that the GWU had expressed concerns about measures that could place additional financial burdens on foreign workers. He emphasised that every worker must be treated with dignity and fairness, irrespective of nationality.
He reiterated that integration is a two-way process, requiring commitment from both sides, where respect for Malta’s laws, culture and communities must go hand in hand with the protection of workers’ rights.
“We do not believe in dividing workers according to their nationality. We believe in solidarity, mutual respect and equal treatment for everyone.”
The GWU remains committed to representing all workers, Maltese and foreign alike, and working towards a fairer and more inclusive society.
Together, we can break down barriers and build a fairer, more inclusive society
– GWU Hospitality and Food Section Secretary Brian Bonnici
The Secretary of the GWU Hospitality and Food Section, Brian Bonnici, emphasised that the General Workers’ Union was proud to once again open its doors to welcome and support third-country nationals (TCNs), reaffirming its role as the voice of all workers in Malta, regardless of nationality, religion, language or identity.
He described the conference as a historic step, as it brought together several key institutions under one roof for the first time to provide information, listen to concerns and answer foreign workers’ questions about their rights and responsibilities.
“The GWU believes in unity, respect and social justice. We stand against all forms of racism, intolerance, abuse and exploitation. We must continue breaking down the barriers that divide us and create an environment where every worker feels respected, protected and free to speak up without fear,” he said.
Bonnici encouraged third-country nationals to make the most of this opportunity by asking questions, expressing their concerns and seeking assistance whenever necessary. He stressed that the GWU would remain committed to providing them with the support and tools needed to understand their rights and fulfil their responsibilities.
He also thanked the High Commissioner of India to Malta and all participating institutions for their collaboration in making this initiative possible.
“Together, we can build a more inclusive, fair and united society, where every worker has the opportunity to contribute positively to the Maltese community,” he concluded.
The contribution of foreign workers and the importance of protecting their rights
– High Commissioner of India to Malta, H.E. Rachita Bhandari
The High Commissioner of India to Malta, Her Excellency Rachita Bhandari, emphasised that one of her main priorities is to represent and safeguard the rights and interests of the Indian community in Malta.
She thanked the General Workers’ Union for its continued collaboration and for organising the conference, highlighting the importance of dialogue and cooperation between institutions and organisations to strengthen the protection and well-being of foreign workers.
Bhandari highlighted the significant contribution of Indian workers to Malta’s economy, which she noted is recording growth of 4%. She pointed out that Indian workers play an important role in several essential sectors, including healthcare, elderly care, public transport and tourism.
She concluded by expressing her pride in the Indian community in Malta and the valuable work its members carry out every day for the benefit of the country.
No person should be subjected to threats, abuse or exploitation
– GWU Third-Country Nationals (TCNs) Representative Manav Sanger
The GWU representative for third-country nationals (TCNs), Manav Sanger, reminded those present that behind every foreign worker lies a personal story, often involving individuals who have left their home countries and families behind in the hope of building a better future.
Sanger stressed that every worker, regardless of origin or nationality, deserves respect, dignity and a safe working environment, free from all forms of discrimination and exploitation.
In this regard, he urged workers experiencing abuse, discrimination or difficulties at work not to remain silent but to seek assistance and support from the relevant authorities.
He also addressed the challenges associated with administrative procedures and delays in processing applications, which can create uncertainty and stress among third-country nationals.
While encouraging applicants to submit all required documentation on time, he called on the authorities to continue providing guidance, assistance and support to those experiencing difficulties throughout these processes.
Finally, Sanger addressed the serious issue of human trafficking and worker exploitation, stressing that no individual should ever be subjected to threats, abuse or exploitation.
He reiterated the importance of ensuring that every worker is informed about their rights and knows where to seek assistance when those rights are violated.
Key institutions provide information and guidance to third-country nationals
Representatives from various institutions and organisations also contributed to the conference by delivering informative presentations, engaging in discussions and answering questions raised by participants.
Among the participating institutions were:
- Department of Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER)
- Crime Prevention and Community Policing – Malta Police Force
- Jobsplus
- Identità
- Housing Authority
- Human Trafficking Services – Aġenzija Appoġġ
The conference provided an important platform for direct dialogue between third-country nationals and the institutions responsible for various aspects of employment, residency, housing, safety and social protection, reinforcing the GWU’s commitment to promoting awareness, integration and the protection of workers’ rights in Malta.
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