Ending the ‘Contractual Limbo’: Momentum’s Push for Definite Contracts

Imagine this: You’re a hardworking Maltese professional, employed on a ‘definite’ contract, but the ‘definite’ part is anything but. Your contract keeps getting renewed, month after month, year after year. You’re not alone. Thousands of Maltese workers are stuck in this ‘contractual limbo’, with no job security and no clear career path. But change is brewing. Momentum, Malta’s leading trade union, is pushing for reforms to end this sustained uncertainty.

Definite Contracts: A Maltese Paradox

In Malta, a ‘definite’ contract is supposed to last for a specified period, typically between six months and five years. But many employers exploit a loophole: they renew these contracts indefinitely, creating a legal limbo that offers workers little security. This practice, known locally as ‘contractual slavery’, has become all too common, affecting workers across various sectors, from retail to hospitality.

Take, for instance, the case of Maria, a 35-year-old retail worker in Sliema. She’s been on a ‘definite’ contract for over seven years. “I’ve no idea what my future holds,” she says, “I could be working here for another decade, or they could decide not to renew my contract tomorrow.” This uncertainty is not just stressful; it also makes it difficult for workers to plan their lives, buy a home, or start a family.

Momentum’s Campaign for Change

Momentum is leading the charge against this practice. They’re pushing for reforms that would limit the duration of definite contracts and provide clearer paths to permanent employment. “Workers deserve stability and security,” says Marco Bonnici, Momentum’s General Secretary. “We’re not asking for the moon; we’re asking for fairness and clarity.”

Momentum’s campaign has gained traction, with support from opposition parties and even some employers. The Malta Employers’ Association, while acknowledging the need for flexibility, has called for a balanced approach that respects workers’ rights. “We can’t have a system where employers have no flexibility, but we also can’t have one where workers have no security,” says Joe Farrugia, the MEA’s Director.

Navigating the Path to Reform

The road to reform won’t be easy. Employers argue that definite contracts provide flexibility, especially in sectors like hospitality and retail, where work can be seasonal. But Momentum counters that this flexibility should not come at the expense of workers’ security.

Legislative changes will be needed, and that’s where the government comes in. While the government has shown some willingness to engage on this issue, Momentum is pushing for concrete action. “We’re not interested in empty promises,” says Bonnici. “We want to see real change, and we want to see it soon.”

The future of Malta’s labor market hangs in the balance. On one hand, you have workers desperate for security, ready to fight for their rights. On the other, you have employers seeking flexibility, worried about the potential costs of reform. The government will have to scene, finding a balance that respects the needs of both workers and employers.

As Malta continues to grapple with this issue, one thing is clear: the status quo is no longer acceptable. Workers deserve better, and Momentum is determined to make sure they get it. “We won’t stop fighting until every Maltese worker has the security and stability they deserve,” says Bonnici.