COVID-19 in Malta : a new reality of working life

Abstract

The economy of Malta, heavily dependent on the services, could not remain unscathed from the adverse effects of COVID-19. The disruptions caused by this pandemic and the subsequent new realities in the world of work proved to be a testing ground for the social partners. Indeed throughout the pandemic, by being highly active at the level of tripartite national social dialogue, they attempted, and managed, to act as effective brokers about the measures and policies being adopted by government in its policies to cope with the nuances of the pandemic. The most vociferous trade unions were those representing the workers, who due to work-related social interaction, tended to be more exposed to the risks of infection. These comprised the doctors, teachers and nurses together with other hospital employees. In their actions and vocal protests these trade unions tried to assert their political weight by brandishing the professional know-how of their members and the high discretional power inherent in their work practices.