Malta’s Unretirees: The New Chapter at 58
Unretirement: The New Chapter for Malta’s Mature Workforce
Imagine this: you’re 58, you’ve just been made redundant, but you’ve got enough savings to retire. Yet, you don’t want to. You’re not alone. Meet Joseph, a long-time employee at a local manufacturing firm in Birkirkara. He’s not ready to hang up his hard hat just yet. Joseph is part of a growing trend of Maltese mature workers choosing ‘unretirement’.
Why the Shift?
Malta’s aging population and changing work culture are driving this shift. According to Eurostat, Malta’s median age is 43.6 years, and by 2070, one in three Maltese will be aged 65 or over. Meanwhile, the rise of the gig economy and flexible work arrangements are making it easier for older workers to stay in the game.
“I’ve got skills and experience I can still offer,” Joseph says, sipping coffee at a bustling Merchant Street café. “Why should I stop working just because I’ve hit 58?”
Unretirement: A New Reality
Joseph is not alone. The Malta Union of Teachers recently reported a rise in teachers working past retirement age. Even the government is taking note. In 2020, Parliament passed an amendment to the Employment and Industrial Relations Act, increasing the retirement age for public sector employees from 60 to 65.
But unretirement isn’t just about economics. It’s also about mental health and social connections. A study by the University of Malta found that retirees often struggle with feelings of isolation and loss of purpose. “Work gives me a sense of identity and keeps me socially active,” Joseph admits.
Navigating Unretirement
So, how can Malta support its unretirees? Flexible work arrangements, lifelong learning opportunities, and age-friendly workplaces are key. The government’s ‘Active Ageing Strategy’ aims to promote these, but more can be done.
Joseph is optimistic. “I’m not looking to work full-time anymore, but I want to contribute, to use what I’ve learned. I think Malta’s ready for this shift.”
As we wrap up, Joseph checks his watch. “I’ve got a meeting with a potential client later. It’s not the same as before, but it’s a new chapter. And I’m ready for it.”
