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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.

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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.

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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.

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During the presentation, the Minister, together with his team, provided a comprehensive overview of the projects implemented throughout 2025, as well as the main economic indicators. The report shows that Malta has made positive progress across several sectors, with various components of the economy reaching their set targets. However, the social partners highlighted the need to continue prioritising productivity, while stressing the importance of sustained investment in technology and innovation.

The discussion also addressed other key themes, including tax policy, the importance of infrastructure investment, and work-life balance, with particular emphasis on its link to higher levels of productivity.

The Chairperson of the MCESD, Maria Micallef, stated that the report provides a solid basis for informed discussion and confirms progress in key areas of the economy. She emphasised that it is essential for investments to translate into tangible increases in productivity and innovation, while noting that the main challenge remains implementation. She concluded by underscoring the crucial role of the MCESD as a platform for constructive and informed dialogue, stressing that discussions must lead to concrete decisions that deliver tangible results for the country, particularly in the context of the challenges identified by the European Commission.

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The Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue and Social Accommodation, Dr Andy Ellul, noted that social partners spoke positively about the preparedness demonstrated by their entities and workers during storm ‘Harry’.

Dr Ellul explained that technical experts from various government entities were also present during the meeting and outlined the existing procedures and legal frameworks related to emergency situations, as well as the ongoing work aimed at further strengthening these measures. He stated that, as a Council, members were reassured about the country’s level of preparedness and about the willingness of social partners to continue cooperating closely with the government to further strengthen national resilience.

The MHRA noted that while the response of the entities concerned was satisfactory, preparedness for emergency situations should be regarded as a collective responsibility. During the meeting, various challenges were discussed from different perspectives, while entities also presented their plans and measures aimed at further strengthening the country’s resilience.

The Chairperson of the MCESD, Maria Micallef, noted that the meeting, which brought together social partners, government representatives and public entities, served to strengthen coordination and awareness of the measures being taken to ensure that the country remains prepared. She emphasised that preparedness must remain an ongoing process, supported by regular discussion and feedback among social partners and all relevant stakeholders.

The MCESD will continue to maintain open dialogue with the competent authorities and provide its recommendations where necessary, with the aim of further strengthening the coordination and resilience of national contingency plans.

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At the first MCESD meeting of this year, held under the leadership of the new Chairperson, Maria Micallef, the Council held an in-depth discussion on these measures, as the Malta 2050 Vision process has now entered its final phase of consolidation and finalisation. The social partners were given the opportunity to study all the indicators and measures in detail.

The social partners acknowledged the manner in which this process was conducted and noted that an initiative of this nature was expected and considered an important step for the country. They also expressed their appreciation for the extensive consultation carried out with the different strata of Maltese society, as well as for the fact that several suggestions put forward were considered and reflected in the vision, ensuring that it represents the national interest. This meeting followed four other meetings held by the Council since the launch of the process in October 2024.

They also observed that the structure of the Vision allows for a higher level of transparency, as each measure is linked to specific indicators, enabling the public to track progress.

The Head of Secretariat in the Office of the Prime Minister, Colonel Dr Mark Mallia, explained that throughout the process, the Government remained in constant contact with the social partners, allowing a highly developed framework for the Vision to be presented. “We have explained in detail the indicators and macro-measures that shape this Vision, which will be accessible to the public through a digital platform. The Malta 2050 Vision will remain a living document that will be adapted over time according to the country’s circumstances,” Dr Mallia stated.

The Minister for the Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects, Silvio Schembri, explained that the process, led by his Ministry, is now nearing completion. “This was a process that resulted in all bodies agreeing on a single, unified document outlining the direction in which we are taking our country. This demonstrates political maturity and confidence in how the process was led,” he said.

The Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister responsible for the Malta Vision 2050, Ronald Mizzi, provided a comprehensive update on the work carried out since April 2025, when the document was opened for public consultation. He highlighted how the project’s governance has recently been further strengthened through the establishment of a steering committee to oversee the continuity of this exercise.“As a result of the extensive consultation, we have continued to strengthen the document and introduce new measures with targets aimed at improving quality of life, which is the Vision’s primary objective. The indicators (KPIs) and macro-measures will guide us for the first ten years, until 2035, while remaining orientated towards where we want to take the country by 2050,” Mr Mizzi explained.

Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue Andy Ellul recalled that the social partners have been involved in this process from the outset and are now seeing the outcomes of their contribution through this inclusive approach. “We must now look ahead and work together to deliver this Vision, including strengthening family-friendly measures such as parental and paternity leave, as well as commencing discussions on remote working and the Right to Disconnect, all of which require cooperation between unions and employers,” he said.

MCESD Chairperson Maria Micallef expressed her satisfaction that the first meeting she chaired focused on such an important and holistic strategy that will guide the country over the next 25 years. “The MCESD looks forward to continuing structured discussions with the social partners and, in the coming days, convening the Task Force to analyse the list of measures and proposals in greater depth, with the aim of providing feedback on the Malta 2050 Vision,” MCESD Chairperson concluded.

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The Young Shapers Forum has been officially launched by the Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue, Andy Ellul. This initiative provides students aged 11 to 15 with a platform within the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD) to present their ideas and opinions on a range of issues affecting the country.

The Young Shapers Forum was established under the MCESD Act and is run by MCESD in collaboration with the Office of the Commissioner for Children. Through this Forum, students will have the opportunity to represent the views of their peers and contribute meaningfully to discussions. During the launch, students were introduced to one another and to the role of MCESD, while also being encouraged to share what they would like to see change or improve in the country.

Parliamentary Secretary Andy Ellul explained that the Forum offers a structured and inclusive platform for students to express their views not only on current issues but also on matters that will shape Malta’s future.

MCESD Chairperson Maria Micallef highlighted the importance of involving younger generations in national discussions and stressed that the Young Shapers Forum will strengthen inclusiveness in social dialogue.
“This is an important step for MCESD as a key platform where the country’s main socio-economic themes are discussed. Through this initiative, we are giving students the opportunity to take part in these discussions and put forward their recommendations,” she said. She emphasised that students will not only be given a voice but will also play a role in shaping the country’s future. “With this initiative, MCESD is ensuring that children and young people have a dedicated platform to share their views.”

The Commissioner for Children, Ms Antoinette Vassallo, highlighted the importance of children’s right to active participation and to be heard on matters that affect them.
“This Forum provides children with a safe space where they can express their views, learn to listen to one another, and understand the value of social dialogue,” she explained. She added that this initiative presents a unique opportunity for children to learn how social dialogue works in practice through the collaboration between the Office of the Commissioner for Children and MCESD.

Concluding the launch, Parliamentary Secretary Andy Ellul reiterated that the Young Shapers Forum is a unique opportunity for children to experience social dialogue in practice, made possible through the joint work of the Office of the Commissioner for Children and the MCESD.

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MCESD Chairperson, Ms Maria Micallef

In her first address, delivered in the presence of the Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue, Hon. Andy Ellul, and the social partners, Ms Micallef explained that the MCESD has a unique and essential role in our country: to serve as a space for structured, serious, and constructive dialogue among the social partners. She also noted that, in a world undergoing rapid change economically, socially, and technologically, the need for mature and informed dialogue has never been more instrumental or necessary.

The Chairperson stressed her commitment to leading the MCESD with integrity, impartiality, and seriousness in collaboration with all social partners. She further explained that, in the coming days, she will be meeting with the members and committees of the MCESD Council to discuss the social partners’ expectations and to carry out structured work to address these in a professional manner.

In his address, the Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue, Hon. Andy Ellul, stressed that the MCESD will once again be addressing topics of national importance this year, as it did in the previous year.

Dr Ellul also announced that measures relating to the Right to Disconnect, Remote Working, and Maternity, Paternity, and Parental Leave will be brought before the MCESD for discussion prior to their finalisation. He explained that these measures aim to further strengthen the balance between work and personal life through a modern and sustainable model that reflects today’s realities and the needs of the country.

During the meeting, recognition was also given to the work of Perit David Xuereb during his three-year tenure as Chairperson, during which he continued to strengthen the role of the MCESD as the country’s principal national platform for social dialogue.

This meeting also marked the first for Permanent Secretary Carlos Tabone in his role as Deputy Chairperson of the MCESD. In addition, Ms Micallef chaired her first meeting as the first female Chairperson of the MCESD.

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The Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue, Hon. Andy Ellul, has appointed Maria Micallef as the new Chairperson of MCESD.

Maria Micallef has extensive experience in the private sector and previously served as Chairperson of Air Malta between 2014 and 2017. She currently serves as a director on several companies operating in the manufacturing, tourism, insurance, and financial services sectors.

Ms Micallef, who is the first woman to hold the position of Chairperson of MCESD, is a graduate in Chemistry and Biology and holds a Master’s degree in Strategic and General Management from the Maastricht School of Management.

During a meeting with Ms Micallef, the Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue, Andy Ellul, stated that her appointment represents another step towards strengthening MCESD.

Dr Ellul described MCESD as crucial in the implementation of the country’s policies and said that the Government must ensure that it continues to be strengthened with all the necessary tools. In this regard, he explained that in the coming period the Government will launch the Young Shapers Forum, which will provide secondary school students with the opportunity to participate in discussions within MCESD.

Parliamentary Secretary Andy Ellul concluded by stating that this initiative confirms the Government’s strong belief in social dialogue and in the participation of young people in shaping the future of the country.

At the end of the meeting, Parliamentary Secretary Andy Ellul thanked the outgoing Chairperson, Perit David Xuereb, for the work he carried out during his three-year tenure.

The MCESD thanks the outgoing Chairperson, Perit David Xuereb, for his service.

Ms Maria Micallef – MCESD Chairperson

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