The General Workers' Union (GWU) has raised concerns over the exploitation of third-country nationals in Malta, including unfair wages, excessive working hours, illegal salary deductions and inadequate accommodation, calling for stronger enforcement of labour standards and greater protection for foreign workers.

Speaking during a conference organised by the GWU under the theme "Staying in Malta... Endorse Your Rights and Duties," Secretary General Kevin Camilleri said that every worker deserved to be treated with dignity, fairness and respect, regardless of nationality, religion or background.

Camilleri acknowledged the contribution of third-country nationals to Malta's economy, particularly in healthcare, hospitality, construction, manufacturing and transport, while saying that foreign workers should enjoy the same protections, fair working conditions and opportunities as Maltese and European workers.

He said that rights and responsibilities must go hand in hand, with those choosing to live and work in Malta also expected to respect the country's laws, culture and communities.

Referring to cases of exploitation, Camilleri said that unfair employment practices not only harmed the workers affected but also undermined labour standards and created unfair competition.

Addressing Budget 2027, he called for a more sustainable approach to labour migration, supported by greater investment in training, skills development and productivity, together with more effective regulation of foreign worker recruitment practices.

He said economic growth needed to be accompanied by decent working conditions, effective integration and stronger enforcement against abuse.

"For the GWU, a worker is a worker, regardless of where they come from. We want a labour market that safeguards human dignity, promotes integration and creates fair opportunities for everyone," Camilleri said.

He reaffirmed the union's commitment to representing both Maltese and foreign workers while promoting solidarity, inclusion and social justice.

GWU Deputy Secretary General Kevin Abela also addressed the conference, saying that third-country nationals made an important contribution to sectors including healthcare, elderly care, hospitality, construction and transport.

Abela referred to the union's concerns about Budget 2027 measures that could place additional financial burdens on foreign workers, saying that all employees should receive fair and dignified treatment irrespective of nationality.

He said integration was a two-way process requiring commitment from both foreign workers and the communities in which they lived, with respect for Maltese laws and culture accompanied by the protection of employment rights.

"We do not believe in dividing workers according to their nationality. We believe in solidarity, mutual respect and equal treatment for everyone," Abela said.

GWU Hospitality and Food Section Secretary Brian Bonnici said the conference marked the first time that several key institutions had been brought together under one roof to provide information, listen to concerns and answer questions from third-country nationals about their rights and responsibilities.

Bonnici said the union remained committed to supporting workers regardless of nationality, religion, language or identity.

"The GWU believes in unity, respect and social justice. We stand against all forms of racism, intolerance, abuse and exploitation. We must continue breaking down the barriers that divide us and create an environment where every worker feels respected, protected and free to speak up without fear," he said.

He encouraged foreign workers to ask questions, raise concerns and seek assistance whenever necessary, adding that the union would continue providing support to help them understand their rights and responsibilities.

Bonnici also thanked the Indian High Commissioner to Malta and the participating institutions for their involvement.

"Together, we can build a more inclusive, fair and united society, where every worker has the opportunity to contribute positively to the Maltese community," he said.

Indian High Commissioner to Malta Rachita Bhandari said that protecting the rights and interests of the Indian community in Malta was among her main priorities.

She thanked the GWU for its continued collaboration and for organising the conference, referring to the importance of cooperation between institutions and organisations in safeguarding the welfare of foreign workers.

Bhandari said Indian workers contributed significantly to Malta's economy, which she said was recording growth of 4%, particularly through their employment in healthcare, elderly care, public transport and tourism.

She also expressed pride in the Indian community and its contribution to Malta.

GWU representative for third-country nationals Manav Sanger said that many foreign workers had left their countries and families in search of better opportunities and deserved safe working environments free from discrimination and exploitation.

He encouraged workers experiencing abuse, discrimination or employment difficulties to seek assistance from the relevant authorities rather than remain silent.

Sanger also referred to administrative difficulties and delays in processing applications, saying these could create uncertainty and stress for third-country nationals.

While encouraging applicants to submit the necessary documentation on time, he called on the authorities to continue offering guidance and assistance to individuals experiencing difficulties with administrative procedures.

He also addressed human trafficking and worker exploitation, saying that no person should be subjected to threats, abuse or exploitation and that workers needed to know their rights and where to seek help when those rights were violated.

Representatives from several institutions participated in the conference, delivering presentations, answering questions and discussing matters relating to employment, residency, housing, safety and social protection.

These included the Department of Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER), the Malta Police Force's Crime Prevention and Community Policing unit, Jobsplus, Identità, the Housing Authority and the Human Trafficking Services within Aġenzija Appoġġ.

The GWU said the conference provided an opportunity for direct dialogue between third-country nationals and the institutions responsible for services affecting their lives in Malta, while strengthening awareness of employment rights, legal responsibilities and available support.