The series of events shaping – and tainting - the year 2020 were relatively impossible to predict. Who would have possibly imagined that our lives would suddenly change and the world as we know it would be deeply challenged? Despite the situation, our country managed to be bold, stand strong and face it all with optimism. With solid finances acting as a strong base for brave measures and resilience at the core of all actions, the Maltese islands are pulling through and despite it all, the government is still meeting its targets and proving – yet again – that it is worthy of people’s trust.

Despite the situation, the 2021 Budget has proposed many actions which put the individual at the very core and which support society both in terms of immediate needs caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as long-term solutions which respond to the changing nature of our society and technology in a flexible manner. The 2021 budget proposes, in fact, the extension of the wage supplement in favour of those who have experienced dramatic changes in their work due to the situation and will also be extending the highly successful vouchers initiative which has – during its first round – injected more than €45 million in the Maltese economy. One must understand – and most of all appreciate – that this is only possible due to careful, persistent and diligent work from the government’s part, as well as being due to an open and fair conversation with all social partners.

The pandemic and its resultant changes will not be the only changes we will experience. The Greek philosopher Heraclitus referred to change as the only constant and thousands of years after, the statement still holds true. Knowing and accepting this as a reality is a first  important step to being in a good position to manage situations well, and in a timely manner.

In a recent report presented by the World Economic Forum, it was stated that the Covid situation has, amongst other things, changed the way we work. And this, most probably, on a permanent basis. The report outlined the role of technology in this change, stating that it will be the reason why some current jobs will be lost and others will be created. This sounds familiar and hints at another case of history repeating itself, confirming – again – change as a constant. The report also states that the trend will be for companies to employ less and to opt for subcontracting and short-term contracts more. It also declares that it is likely that offices and factories will relocate to new countries and that an estimated amount of 85 million jobs will have to be transformed. It is in this context, and fully aware of this reality, that government has announced the launch of training programmes through which workers may upskill, re-skill and invest in their talent to be able to adapt and adopt a flexible approach. Also aware of the opportunities which such a scenario presents, the Budget proposes schemes which address this in a number of different fields such as manufacturing, tourism and digital innovation.

Yet again, the government has proven that sustainability is not just a buzzword, but is in effect a main driving force for all decisions and actions taken. The 2021 Budget not only targets immediate needs but also looks ahead and lays the foundation for a solid future. I was therefore pleased to note how the concept of sustainable economy and green economy are at the core of a number of measures within this budget, and which will make targets - such as the carbon neutrality by 2050 target - a possibility. Proof of this are the Green Bonds which aim to fund projects that will propose solutions for the use of renewable energy and clean air. It is also a budget which fully endorses and supports the concept of a digital economy, which is by and large, the way forward. Sectors such as Artificial Intelligence, Gaming, Digital Games, Quantum and High-performance computing, Blockchain amongst others constitute a focus and this is a clear example of how we are paving the way for diversification in our workforce.

Whilst we are looking ahead, we need to remain attentive to the current situation and in touch with the various sectors and partners as we create and re-invent ourselves in ways which are relevant to the times we are living in. I truly believe in the power of an open dialogue and all the efforts which the Ministry has made so far have proved to be fruitful and successful. That is why, in spite of the challenges we are facing, I remain optimistic and confident in the power of dialogue, sustainability and proactivity as the main agents for resilience in the context of a changing world.

 Carmelo Abela, Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister