Workers in our homes: too invisible to be protected

15 Jun 2026 - Blog | Home | The Union

– Kevin Camilleri, Secretary General of the GWU

In today’s Malta, a sector is growing quietly but rapidly, yet remains far too invisible: that of domestic workers and carers living in other people’s homes. These are the individuals who care for our elderly, vulnerable persons, and families – yet too often, they themselves end up living in situations of significant vulnerability.

The reality is clear: the current model, in which a domestic worker is employed directly by a private family, is creating relationships of dependency and a lack of protection that are extremely difficult to address. When the workplace is also the place where one lives, the boundaries between working time and personal time almost disappear.

When the employer also controls accommodation and, in some cases, even migration status, the balance of power is completely lost. This creates a reality where the law may exist on paper, but enforcement becomes almost impossible. How can labour inspectors enter a private home to verify working conditions? How can a worker report abuse when they know they may lose not only their job, but also their home and, potentially, their right to remain in the country?

Furthermore, there are legal elements that continue to reinforce this vulnerability. In certain cases, a domestic worker may be dismissed immediately, without compensation, on the subjective basis of a “loss of trust.” This is not merely a question of weak enforcement – it is a structural issue that requires serious reflection on how this sector is regulated.

This is where the need for a new narrative comes in. It is not enough to speak only of standardised contracts or improved guidelines. These are positive steps, but on their own they will not be sufficient to protect those who are isolated, dependent, and vulnerable.

Real protection exists when there is a structure that provides workers with a voice and strength, alongside clear accountability for employers. One of the solutions currently being discussed is for Malta to move towards a model where domestic workers are employed through licensed and regulated agencies rather than directly by private individuals. This does not mean families lose the support they need – quite the opposite. It means responsibilities are organised, transparent, and subject to clear standards.

The agency would become the official employer, responsible for working conditions and workers’ rights, while families would continue receiving the care services they need.

This change is not simply a matter of regulation – it is also a question of social justice and gender equality. The majority of these workers are women, many of whom come from countries outside the European Union.

The way we treat them says a great deal about the kind of society we want to be.

Ultimately, the question is simple but fundamental: can we continue building a care system that depends on the invisibility and vulnerability of others? Or has the time come for this sector to become truly visible, regulated, and fair?

If we genuinely want to value care – and those who provide it – we must begin by creating a system that respects their dignity. This is only the beginning of an important discussion, but one we can no longer afford to leave at the margins.