Josef Bugeja, General Secretary of the General Workers’ Union (GWU), has urged Malta to focus not only on economic growth but also on improving social well-being, as the country looks toward the future. Speaking at a discussion titled “Economy that Works for the People” earlier today, Bugeja emphasized the need for a collective approach to shaping Malta’s future, where the benefits of economic success are shared by everyone.
“We can no longer talk only economically; we must also talk socially about where we want to take this country and our society in the time to come,” Bugeja stated.
“Everyone is contributing to this growth, and therefore the success must be shared among everyone.”
Bugeja highlighted the evolving nature of work and the changing expectations of Maltese citizens. “In the workplaces where we represent, workers enjoy being appreciated, and that appreciation translates into better conditions. Today we no longer talk about jobs, but about careers,” he said, emphasizing that the conversation must now shift toward improving thequality of life for all.
The GWU leader also stressed the importance of ensuring that Malta’s economic growth reaches all citizens, including foreign workers, who make significant contributions to the local economy. He pointed to the continued exploitation and abuse in some sectors, reiterating the union’s call for automatic union membership as a safeguard for workers’ rights.
In a forward-looking statement, Bugeja tied these issues to Malta’s long-term vision, referring to the recently launched Malta 2050 process a project in which the GWU is playing an active role. The initiative aims to define the country’s future direction in the coming decades.
“We have come a long way as a country, but a leap in quality is next. We now must decide where we will take our country. Together, we will shape a future for ourselves and our children, and determine the direction Malta will take,” Bugeja concluded.
The GWU’s commitment to addressing both economic and social challenges continues to drive its efforts as the union plays an increasingly important role in shaping Malta’s future.
