Malta’s ‘Job insecurity’ Hotspot: Reforming Definite Contracts for Fairness

Imagine this: You’ve been working at the same company for over two years, yet your contract keeps rolling over on a monthly basis. No job security, no benefits, and no clear path forward. This isn’t a hypothetical scenario, but a reality for thousands of Maltese workers. Now, Momentum is pushing for change, advocating for definite contracts to end this sustained uncertainty.

Definite Contracts: A Foreign Concept?

In Malta, the norm is ‘definite’ contracts, which are renewed monthly or annually. While this flexibility benefits employers, it leaves employees in a perpetual state of insecurity. Momentum is calling for a shift towards ‘indefinite’ contracts, where workers have the right to a permanent position after a certain period, typically six months.

“We’re not asking for the impossible,” says Marc Sant Fournier, Momentum’s spokesperson. “We’re simply asking for fairness. Workers deserve the peace of mind that comes with job security, especially after proving their worth to a company.”

Local Voices: The Struggle is Real

Take 32-year-old Maria, a retail assistant at a popular Valletta store. Despite her dedication and the store’s success, her contract is renewed monthly. “I’ve been here for two years,” she says, “but I still live paycheck to paycheck, constantly worried about the next renewal.”

Or consider 45-year-old Joseph, a software developer in Msida. Despite his skills and experience, he’s been on a definite contract for five years. “I’ve missed out on promotions and raises because I’m not ‘permanent’ staff,” he laments. “It’s demoralizing.”

Momentum’s Plan of Action

Momentum is pushing for legislation that would grant workers the right to an indefinite contract after six months of continuous employment. They’re also advocating for better protection against unfair dismissals and clearer rules on contract renewals.

“We’re not against flexibility,” says Sant Fournier. “But it should work both ways. Employers should have the flexibility to hire and fire, but workers should have the security of knowing their job is theirs to keep, given they perform well.”

Momentum is rallying support through social media, with the hashtag #FairContractsMalta. They’re also planning a public march, starting at the General Workers’ Union in Marsa, to end at the Parliament building in Valletta.

As Malta’s economy grows, so too should its workers’ rights. It’s time to end the sustained uncertainty and give workers the security they deserve.

“We’re not asking for the moon. We’re asking for fairness. For workers to have the same rights as employers.” – Marc Sant Fournier, Momentum