In the heart of Malta’s bustling capital, Valletta, the General Workers’ Union (GWU) headquarters buzzed with anticipation last week. The union’s council members were gathered, not for a protest or a strike, but for an election that would shape the future of Malta’s largest trade union. As the votes were counted, one name echoed through the historic building – Kevin Camilleri.

Kevin Camilleri, a 37-year-old former shop steward at the Malta International Airport, is no stranger to the GWU. With over a decade of experience in the union, he has risen through the ranks, advocating for workers’ rights and negotiating collective agreements. His election as the new General Secretary marks a significant shift in the union’s leadership, bringing a fresh perspective and a new energy to the role.

“I’m honoured and humbled to have been chosen to lead the GWU,” Camilleri said in an exclusive interview with Hot Malta. “I’ve spent my career fighting for workers’ rights, and now, I have the opportunity to do that on a larger scale.”

The GWU, founded in 1943, has been a staple in Malta’s labour movement. With Camilleri at the helm, the union is set to embark on a new chapter, one that promises to be more inclusive and more vocal. Camilleri plans to reach out to sectors often overlooked by traditional unions, such as the gig economy and the creative industries, ensuring that all workers have a voice.

“The world of work is changing rapidly, and our union must adapt to reflect that,” Camilleri said. “We need to ensure that every worker, regardless of their sector or employment status, knows that they have rights and that the GWU is there to protect them.”

Camilleri takes over the reins at a time when Malta’s economy is grappling with labour shortages and increasing cost of living. He is aware of the challenges ahead but remains optimistic. “We’re facing tough times, but we’re also presented with opportunities,” he said. “We can use this moment to push for better wages, better working conditions, and a more balanced economy that works for everyone, not just the few.”

As he prepares to take up his new role, Camilleri has a clear vision for the GWU. “I want us to be a union that listens, that acts, and that makes a real difference in the lives of Malta’s workers. I want us to be a union that workers are proud to be a part of,” he said.