The collaboration creates opportunities for studies and analysis on the labour market, productivity, social policy, sustainability, demographics and regional development, including Gozo. The agreement also provides for University representatives to contribute to relevant Council discussions and for an annual strategic dialogue on research, skills, innovation and emerging economic and social trends.

Through this partnership, the two institutions will explore opportunities for training, seminars, workshops and student involvement in research projects related to social dialogue. The agreement also provides for the use of the University’s Valletta Campus for MCESD activities, subject to availability and agreed arrangements.

The agreement was signed on behalf of MCESD by Chairperson Ms Maria Micallef and Chief Executive Officer Dr Brendan Zerafa, and on behalf of the University of Malta by Rector Professor Frank Bezzina. The Minister for European Funds, Social Dialogue and Consumer Protection Keith Azzopardi Tanti, and the Minister for Education and Sport Byron Camilleri, presided over the signing.

Photos: 

The post MCESD and the University of Malta strengthen collaboration in research and social dialogue. appeared first on MCESD.

The Chief Executive Officer of Identità, Colonel Edric Zahra, and Graziella Cauchi from Jobsplus reviewed the first year of implementation and explained the impact of the measures introduced. They outlined progress in strengthening employment stability and compliance in the labour market, as well as efforts to better align workers’ skills with labour market needs while supporting their integration and protection.

Minister Jonathan Attard said the first year of implementation had been positive. “Labour migration cannot simply be a question of how many workers we need, but which workers and which skills the country truly needs,” he said.

Minister Keith Azzopardi Tanti welcomed the social partners’ response to the progress made and emphasised the importance of continued dialogue to ensure the policy evolves in line with current and future needs.

MCESD Chairperson Maria Micallef said that “there was unanimous agreement that this policy has been implemented well and is already delivering benefits, while recognising that there is still room for improvement.”

The social partners also discussed the evaluation of existing measures and the next steps in developing the policy. The MCESD will continue to provide a forum for dialogue between the Government and social partners so that the policy remains responsive to the needs of the labour market.

Photos:

The post Social partners discuss the first year of the Labour Migration Policy appeared first on MCESD.

The meeting, held on 18 September 2026 at the University of Malta Valletta Campus, included introductory remarks by MCESD Chairperson Maria Micallef and the Minister for European Funds, Social Dialogue and Consumer Protection, Hon. Keith Azzopardi Tanti. A presentation was delivered by Ms Maria Elena Despott, Head of the European Commission Representation in Malta, followed by feedback from social partners.

The presentation provided an overview of Malta’s economic performance, highlighting GDP growth of 4.0% in 2025, with growth forecast at 3.7% in 2026. It also noted continued employment growth, alongside challenges related to labour and skills shortages.

Ms Maria Elena Despott, Head of the European Commission Representation in Malta, said “President Ursula von der Leyen’s State of the Union Address set out the vision and concrete actions for the year ahead to address the needs of European citizens and businesses. The priorities outlined are particularly relevant to Malta, including competitiveness, completing the Single Market, simplifying rules, improving access to capital and creating higher-quality jobs.”

She added that challenges ranging from artificial intelligence to climate change also present opportunities for citizens and businesses, while highlighting the importance of the European Semester recommendations in strengthening Malta’s competitiveness.

Discussing what was addressed during the meeting, MCESD Chairperson Maria Micallef said that “we focused on two important areas: President Ursula von der Leyen’s State of the Union Address, which outlined the EU’s priorities for the year ahead, and the European Semester Country Report for Malta. While the economic figures show that Malta continues to move in a positive direction, we also discussed the six areas identified through the EU recommendations where Malta needs to maintain its focus.”

The meeting examined the six areas covered by the Country Specific Recommendations for Malta for 2026 and 2027: Fiscal, Tax and Pensions; EU funding; Research & Innovation, and Justice System; Energy and Transport, Waste and Water management; Education, Skills and Job-quality concerns.

The discussion provided social partners with an opportunity to exchange views on the recommendations and their implications for Malta’s economic and social development.

Photos:

The post MCESD discusses European priorities and recommendations for Malta appeared first on MCESD.

The meeting was held in the presence of the Minister for European Funds, Social Dialogue and Consumer Protection, Keith Azzopardi Tanti, and MCESD Chairperson Maria Micallef. The session included a presentation by DIER, followed by feedback from social partners and a discussion on the planned next steps.

The discussion provided social partners with an opportunity to raise questions, seek clarifications and share their perspectives on the practical implementation of the new requirements within Maltese workplaces.

The Pay Transparency Regulations introduce several measures aimed at strengthening transparency and gender equity in the workplace. These include rights to information on pay, requirements relating to salary information during recruitment, gender pay gap reporting for certain employers and mechanisms addressing unjustified pay gaps.

Minister Keith Azzopardi Tanti highlighted that the discussion itself was driven by the social partners and emphasised the importance of listening to their experiences. “This was a highly interesting session and discussion, initiated and requested by the social partners themselves, focusing on the Pay Transparency Directive. Together with DIER, we had the opportunity to listen to what the social partners had to say so that we can continue improving our work in this area,” said Minister Keith Azzopardi Tanti.

MCESD Chairperson Maria Micallef also underlined the importance of continued dialogue in ensuring that the implementation process is clearly communicated to the respective members represented by the social partners. Ms Micallef mentioned that “the discussion between the social partners addressed a number of clarifications that needed to be discussed. Through dialogue with social partners, we can communicate more effectively with their respective members on the best way forward for implementation, ensuring that the process is carried out as effectively as possible and with minimal negative impact on employers and employees.”

Director General of DIER, Diane Vella Muscat said that engagement with social partners provides an important insight into how the legislation is being experienced within workplaces. “We had a very interesting dialogue on the Pay Transparency Directive. Now that the legislation has been published, we were able to discuss its implementation and what is being encountered in workplaces. This helps us, as the regulator, to better understand the realities on the ground. Social partners are often our eyes and ears, and it is important that we continue working with them to ensure pay transparency and that workers receive what they are entitled to,” continued Ms Vella Muscat.

The meeting reaffirmed the role of the MCESD as a platform for structured social dialogue, bringing together Government, social partners and relevant institutions to discuss legislative and policy developments affecting the workplace.

Photos:

The post MCESD discusses implementation of Pay Transparency Directive with social partners appeared first on MCESD.

MCESD Meeting

Addressing the MCESD meeting on this agenda item were Hon. Miriam Dalli, Minister for Energy, the Environment and the Regeneration of the Grand Harbour; Hon. Keith Azzopardi Tanti, Minister for European Funds, Social Dialogue and Consumer Protection; Enemalta Executive Chairman Ing. Ryan Fava and representatives from Enemalta.

Minister Miriam Dalli and Enemalta Executive Chairman, Engineer Ryan Fava, address the MCESD.

Addressing the MCESD, Enemalta provided an update on the progress of its ongoing investment programme aimed at strengthening Malta’s electricity distribution network. The company highlighted the improvements achieved through its €141 million investment programme (2023–2026), which is increasing network capacity, improving reliability and preparing the electricity system for future demand driven by electrification, renewable energy, industrial growth and major national projects.

MCESD Chairperson Maria Micallef and Minister for Social Dialogue Keith Azzopardi Tanti addressing the MCESD.

Enemalta Executive Chairman Ing. Ryan Fava said that the company is investing not only to meet current electricity needs but also to build the network required for Malta’s future. He highlighted that, despite a significant increase in electricity demand, downtime on the medium-voltage network has been reduced by around 76% compared to 2023, demonstrating the positive impact of strategic investment in infrastructure. Ing. Fava also stressed that Enemalta is intensifying works on the low-voltage network, which directly serves households and businesses, while continuing to reinforce the electricity system to support Malta’s long-term energy, economic and sustainability objectives.

MCESD Chairperson Ms Maria Micallef welcomed the discussion and highlighted the importance of continued dialogue and consultation between the relevant stakeholders. She emphasised the value of discussing key national issues such as energy infrastructure, investment and future planning, which are important for ensuring a sustainable and resilient future for Malta.

The Council acknowledged and appreciated the continued commitment of Minister Miriam Dalli and Enemalta in regularly updating the MCESD and its social partners on ongoing works, investment plans and developments within Malta’s electricity distribution network. Members noted that these consultations contribute to greater transparency, informed discussion and closer cooperation between public authorities, Enemalta and the social partners as Malta continues to strengthen its energy infrastructure and prepare for future energy challenges and opportunities.

Social partners also acknowledged the scale of the ongoing investment programme and the improvements achieved in network reliability. They shared comments and observations on the matters discussed and emphasised the importance of continued dialogue and consultation among all stakeholders on issues related to Malta’s energy future and infrastructure development.

Minister for Equality and Civil Rights Rosianne Cutajar and Dr Jurgen Dingli from the Human Rights Directorate addressing the MCESD.

During the second part of the meeting, the MCESD welcomed Hon. Rosianne Cutajar, Minister for Equality and Civil Rights, and representatives from the Human Rights Directorate for a discussion on equality and human rights.

The discussion focused on the proposed legislation establishing the National Commission for Human Rights and Equality, which is intended to serve both as a National Human Rights Institution in line with the Paris Principles and as an Equality Body in accordance with relevant EU directives.

MCESD Chairperson Ms Maria Micallef welcomed the presentation and emphasised the importance of continued dialogue and consultation on matters relating to equality, human rights and social inclusion.

Social partners also shared comments and observations on the proposal and highlighted the importance of maintaining an open and constructive discussion among all stakeholders as the legislative process continues.

Photos:

The post MCESD Discusses Energy Infrastructure and Equality Legislation with Government Representatives appeared first on MCESD.

The Chairperson of the MCESD, Ms Maria Micallef, stressed the importance of maintaining regular engagement between the MCESD and the Malta Fiscal Advisory Council, ensuring that data-driven analysis continues to strengthen social dialogue and contribute to more informed policy-making.

The Minister for European Funds, Social Dialogue and Consumer Protection, the Hon. Keith Azzopardi Tanti, thanked the social partners for their continued commitment and active participation within the MCESD. He emphasised that the Government will continue to listen to the views and contributions of all stakeholders.

During the meeting, the social partners participated in a discussion where they shared their views and proposals on the subject. They highlighted the importance of Malta continuing to strengthen its economy while creating greater opportunities for individuals and businesses. Discussions also focused on sustainable economic growth, productivity, business competitiveness, the diversification of the Gozitan economy, energy security, quality of life, and well-being, as well as how these priorities can continue to contribute to the country’s future development.

The partners agreed that regular reports of this nature provide valuable support for evidence-based discussions and assist in addressing the economic challenges ahead.

During the second part of the agenda, the Maltese members of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), Professor Philip Von Brockdorff and Mr Jason Deguara, updated the social partners on the work being carried out by the EESC. Through a presentation and discussion, further opportunities for collaboration between the EESC and MCESD were also explored.

Photos:

The post Malta Fiscal Advisory Council Discusses Fiscal Governance and Economic Priorities with MCESD appeared first on MCESD.

The post Prime Minister discusses national priorities for this legislature with the MCESD appeared first on MCESD.

The Civil Society Committee discusses issues of relevance to society and puts forward recommendations to Government.

• Eligibility

To be eligible to join the committee, organisations must be registered with the Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations for at least one year.

• Elections & Voting

Following the nomination process, elections will be held in sectors where more than two nominations are received.

• Each organisation registered with MCESD is entitled to one vote.
• Organisations may vote only within their respective sector.
• Voting in other sectors is not permitted.

The current list of registered organisations may be viewed here: MCESD Register of VOs
(Please note that the list is currently being updated as new registrations are received.)

Elections are envisaged to take place in June and will be conducted online. No physical attendance will be required.

• Committee Meetings & Responsibilities

Committee meetings are generally held once a month, currently on the second Monday of each month between 4:00pm and 5:30pm, either at the MCESD Offices in Valletta or online.

Committee members identify and prioritise discussion topics. Following discussions, reports and recommendations are submitted to the MCESD Chairperson and relevant ministries, authorities, or entities. Follow-up meetings may also be held when necessary.

The Chairperson is elected from among committee members once the new committee is established. If more than one candidate is nominated, an election will be held. The elected Chairperson also serves as an ex officio member of MCESD.

• Participation & Commitment

Active participation is essential for the effectiveness of the Committee. Members are therefore expected to attend meetings regularly and contribute to discussions and feedback exchanged via email between meetings.

Further information regarding the Committee’s procedures and the responsibilities of elected members may be found in Legal Notice 206 of 2012 and Legal Notice 92 of 2024

• Registration & Nominations

Organisations interested in participating may register and submit nomination details through the following form: Registration and Nomination form

Alternatively, organisations may send an email to: info.mcesd@gov.mt to receive further information.

Deadline for submission of nominations: 14^th June 2026.

Your organisation’s voice matters, and your participation is highly valued. Join us in making an impact.

The post CALL FOR NOMINATIONS – Civil Society Committee within MCESD appeared first on MCESD.

Against this backdrop, and at the request of the General Workers’ Union (GWU) and the Chamber of Commerce, the MCESD discussed digitalisation and its importance in today’s world. The discussion, held together with the Social Partners, was attended by representatives from the Ministry for the Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects, the Malta Digital Innovation Authority (MDIA), Malta Enterprise, and the Malta Business Registry (MBR). These entities presented various initiatives, measures, and schemes related to digitalisation, supporting both workers and businesses in adapting to digital transformation.

MCESD Chairperson Maria Micallef stressed that without the necessary skills, the desired results cannot be achieved and therefore emphasised the importance of reskilling, upskilling, and lifelong learning. She noted that it is essential to look ahead and understand how digitalisation can be leveraged to enhance people’s quality of life while ensuring that sustainability and resilience remain central to promoting inclusive and sustainable development.

“Through the unique MCESD platform, Government and Social Partners can work together to ensure that digitalisation, while bringing inevitable change, remains a fair transformation that delivers results for both industry and workers. In this context, social dialogue remains essential to ensure that this change is inclusive, sustainable, and truly beneficial to all.”

The General Workers’ Union explained that it proposed this discussion out of the belief that workers must be equipped with the training and skills necessary to face ongoing changes in the world of work. It emphasised the importance of lifelong learning to help workers adapt to continuous transformation while working alongside Government and employers to enhance the value of workers in the labour market.

The Chamber of Commerce stated that digitalisation is an evolving reality that must be addressed with seriousness. It highlighted the importance of businesses benefiting from Government schemes, services, and initiatives to strengthen their competitiveness.

The MCESD Council positively welcomed the meeting, describing it as highly relevant to today’s realities, and put forward several recommendations to the relevant authorities on measures to further strengthen digitalisation for both workers and businesses.

Photos:

The post Digitalisation on the MCESD Agenda appeared first on MCESD.

The meeting focused on the stability of energy supply and prices, fuel security, as well as on the projects being implemented to further strengthen the country’s security of supply and the overall resilience of the sector.

Social partners, representing various sectors of society and the economy, discussed the issues raised and contributed to the process through social dialogue and consultation.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister emphasised the importance of taking decisions that continue to guarantee both security of supply and stability in energy prices, while also referring to the investments and policies supporting the sector.

Minister Miriam Dalli highlighted that stability in both price and supply remains a key pillar of national energy policy, while also underlining ongoing efforts to sustain investment and advance the transition towards more sustainable energy sources.

Parliamentary Secretary Andy Ellul, for his part, stressed the importance of social dialogue, noting that such meetings provide an important platform for social partners to express their views on matters that impact the country’s future.

MCESD members were also presented with an overview of plans and developments in the energy sector by representatives of key entities.

Photos:

The post MCESD Addresses Energy Security and Stability in Light of Global Challenge appeared first on MCESD.