The General Workers’ Union (GWU) has officially unveiled its proposals for Malta’s 2026 Budget during a press conference held on Tuesday afternoon. These proposals, previously submitted to the Government, were also presented to the Nationalist Party in a recent meeting with the GWU’s central administration.
In its document, the GWU emphasised that while economic growth remains vital, it must be accompanied by social justice and dignity. The union stressed that workers are the backbone of the economy, and only through investment in their security, rights, and opportunities can Malta sustain progress and build a more resilient future.
The proposals are rooted in the daily experiences of workers across all sectors of society. They reflect the aspirations of young people seeking stability, the challenges faced by families, the dignity pensioners deserve, and the voices of vulnerable groups who equally merit protection.
The GWU believes that a modern budget should go beyond mere figures. It should reflect society’s collective priorities and serve as a blueprint for justice, inclusion, and sustainable growth. The union also underscored the importance of constructive dialogue and partnership, advocating collaboration between government, employers, and workers to ensure the benefits of progress are widely shared.
The themes outlined in the GWU’s proposal cover key areas such as healthcare, education, housing, pensions, and workers’ rights. These are part of a holistic vision aimed at ensuring no one is left behind.
GWU Secretary General Josef Bugeja stated, “The message behind these proposals is clear: Malta’s economic success must always go hand in hand with a just society and the dignity of its workers.”
Among the key recommendations, the GWU calls for the continuation of energy and fuel subsidies to maintain price stability, the exemption of the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) from taxation, and the initiation of discussions on the concept of a living income.
Additional proposals include reforms to the Employment and Industrial Relations Act, equal minimum wage from the age of 16 without age-based discrimination, double pay for work on Sundays and public holidays across all sectors, and automatic trade union membership based on workers’ choice.
GWU Pushes for Bold Social and Economic Reforms in Budget 2026
As part of its comprehensive proposals for Malta’s 2026 Budget, the General Workers’ Union (GWU) has put forward a pilot project for a 32-hour workweek without loss of pay. GWU Secretary General Josef Bugeja emphasised the need for thorough study, stating, “We must assess the impact on Malta’s industry, competitiveness, productivity, worker well-being, and workplace operations. We need to understand how this can be implemented and how it can function effectively.”
Bugeja also advocated investment in medical centres and childcare facilities within industrial zones to improve accessibility for workers. He highlighted the importance of the “right to disconnect,” the presence of mental health first aiders in workplaces, and increased funding for mental health support and safe spaces for LGBTIQ+ youth and other vulnerable groups.
On education, Bugeja called for a structured programme for apprenticeships and traineeships, greater investment in vocational and technical schools, and the inclusion of workers’ rights and trade union education in the national curriculum.
He also proposed the introduction of skill cards across all sectors to improve workplace quality and safety, stricter regulations on noise and air pollution, more pedestrian zones in village centres, better accessibility for persons with disabilities, and the continuation of the Affordable Housing initiative between the Government and the Church.
Regarding Gozo, Bugeja stated that the union is proposing expanded post-secondary and university education on the island, capital investment projects including in Gozo Hospital, and the preservation of Gozo’s unique characteristics.
Other GWU proposals include stronger enforcement against undeclared work and exploitation, and the ratification of new International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions to align Malta with international standards.
The union also called for concrete action against noise, littering, and the misuse of public spaces. “Malta needs a new culture of respect and responsibility towards one another. Civic discipline is the foundation of a just, safe, and respectful society,” Bugeja said.
He concluded, “These proposals are an investment in Maltese society. A just society requires a fair economy. The dignity, well-being, and participation of workers are the foundation of sustainable economic and social growth.”
GWU President Victor Carachi also addressed the press, highlighting the union’s long-standing advocacy for Vision Malta 2050. He explained that this vision goes beyond the five-year political cycle, setting goals to be achieved over the next decade.
Deputy Secretary General Kevin Camilleri reiterated the importance of the 32-hour workweek pilot, stating that it should prompt discussions on how the world of work is evolving and how Malta can respond to current needs.
