GWU expresses solidarity with artists and calls for fair and timely payment

3 Aug 2026 - Home | News | Professionals, Finance and Services | Sections

The General Workers’ Union (GWU) expresses its full solidarity with the artists who were forced to seek justice through the courts in order to receive payment for their work on Divas II – The Dance Show. No worker should ever be compelled to take legal action simply to receive wages that have been honestly earned and rightfully due.

The Secretary of the GWU Professionals, Finance and Services Section, Riccarda Darmanin, stated: “Unfortunately, this case is not an isolated one. Over the years, the GWU has assisted numerous workers within the creative and cultural sectors who have experienced delayed or unpaid remuneration despite having fulfilled their professional obligations. The Union has consistently stood by these workers, making use of every available avenue to help them recover what is rightfully theirs.”

Behind every delayed or unpaid wage is a worker who has invested time, talent, effort and dedication. In many cases, that income is essential for meeting financial commitments and supporting a family.

From television productions to live performances, financial pressures are too often shifted onto artists, performers, technicians and other professionals within the creative sector, rather than being borne by the production companies responsible for managing and financing these projects. Such practices diminish the value of creative work and can leave workers facing serious financial hardship and unnecessary emotional strain.

Fair pay is not solely about receiving appropriate remuneration for work carried out. It also means being paid on time, with dignity, and in accordance with agreed terms. Every worker, regardless of the sector in which they are employed, deserves this fundamental standard of respect and protection.

The GWU remains firmly committed to defending workers’ rights and supporting all those who seek its assistance. Through its services, guidance, representation and ongoing advocacy, the Union works to help workers recover what is rightfully theirs while ensuring that employers honour their obligations. No worker should ever have to face such situations alone.

The Union encourages anyone experiencing similar difficulties to contact the GWU and seek its support. When workers speak up, stand together and act collectively, they strengthen their voice and contribute to a culture of fairness, accountability and respect within Malta’s creative and cultural sectors.