Malta has recorded the highest employment rate in the European Union for the first time, reaching 83.6%, according to newly published figures by Eurostat.
The rate places Malta at the top among all 27 EU member states and stands approximately seven percentage points above the EU average.
The announcement was welcomed by Byron Camilleri, Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment, who described the results as clear evidence of the country's economic and social progress over the past decade. He noted that in 2012, Malta's employment rate was around three percentage points below the EU average and ranked among the lowest within the bloc.
Speaking about the factors behind the increase, Camilleri said the Government's strategy focused on both economic expansion and social policy reform. "Work gives dignity," he said, explaining that growth created more job opportunities while targeted measures ensured more people could access them. Among the initiatives cited were the tapering of social benefits and the introduction of in-work benefits, which made employment more financially viable for individuals previously outside the labour market.
Eurostat data also highlights significant progress in female participation in the workforce. In 2012, the employment rate among women in Malta was approximately 13 percentage points lower than the EU average. By 2035, however, this trend had reversed, with female employment exceeding the European average by more than five percentage points. The Minister said this shift reflects the positive impact of policies aimed at increasing inclusivity and supporting work-life balance.
Camilleri added that Malta's strong employment performance provides a foundation for the Government to shift its focus towards improving the quality of jobs and investing in skills development. These efforts form part of the broader Malta 2050 Vision, which aims to ensure long-term sustainability and resilience in the labour market.
He emphasised that future policy will prioritise better working conditions, increased opportunities for career progression, and measures to help workers balance professional and personal responsibilities. "The discussion in the country has rightly evolved," he said, pointing out that attention is now turning from job creation to job quality.
Concluding, the Minister reaffirmed the Government's commitment to maintaining record employment levels while ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are shared fairly across society. He said the aim is to continue strengthening the labour market in a way that benefits all Maltese and Gozitan families.