The making of the Union Ħaddiema Magħqudin

Abstract

This study has primarily sought to analyse the origin, formation and growth of the Union Ħaddiema Magħqudin (UHM), as also the role and contributions of the union within the Maltese Trade Union Movement. To this effect, a series of interviews have been made to the protagonists of the UHM, such that the union's struggles, ideology and structure could be outlined. Interviews were also conducted with representatives of other unions and interest groups - namely the General Workers' Union, the Employers' Association and the Federation of Industries. The UHM has been founded as a 'crafts' union in 1966 and developed into a 'public service employees' union by 1973. In 1978 it then extended its membership to a 'general' recruitment, and ever since, it has become the second largest trade union in Malta.