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Third-Country Nationals in Malta Speak Out About Workplace Exploitation Amid New Government Policy
August 17 2024 13:39 by PCLMedia
In a recent outcry, third-country nationals (TCNs) working in Malta have shared their experiences of exploitation and mistreatment, bringing attention to the often-overlooked struggles faced by foreign workers in the country. These individuals are frequently recruited by Maltese companies before leaving their home countries, lured by promises of security and stability. However, upon arrival, many find themselves in a reality far different from what they were led to expect.
One TCN shared an emotional post, highlighting the challenges of moving to a new country and the fears that come with it. The post stressed that TCNs are not asking for special treatment, but simply for fairness and respect. "We came here in good faith, to contribute, to work hard, and to build a life. But instead, we’re treated like disposable objects, tossed aside when it’s convenient for the company, and then blamed for their own shortcomings," the post read.
The post further explained how the illusion of security shatters once these workers begin their jobs in Malta. Many TCNs find themselves subjected to substandard working conditions, and when companies decide to downsize, the burden is often unfairly placed on the employees. Terminations are frequently carried out through mechanisms like "Performance Improvement Plans," which the post described as a way to shift blame onto the workers themselves.
The post garnered significant attention, with hundreds of reactions and dozens of comments from people who either shared similar experiences or expressed solidarity with the TCNs. One comment pointed to the struggles faced by Bolt couriers when they attempted to speak out, highlighting the grim reality of worker exploitation in Malta. The discussion in the comments expanded the scope of the issue, with some Maltese workers also noting that exploitation is not confined to foreign workers but affects locals as well.
"This exploitation needs to stop," the post concluded. "We deserve better. We deserve transparency, respect, and the basic human decency of being treated fairly. We are not pawns in your corporate games, and we will not be silent any longer!"
In response to growing concerns about the treatment of TCNs, the Maltese government introduced a new policy at the end of July 2024. This policy aims to limit the employment of third-country nationals in certain sectors, particularly in the cab driving and food courier industries. The government’s stated goal is to protect Maltese workers and crack down on employers who pay below minimum wage.
As a result of this policy, hundreds of new work permits and requests for changes in employment were rejected by Identity Malta following recommendations from JobsPlus. The government justified the move as necessary to safeguard local workers and to address the exploitation of TCNs by unscrupulous employers.
However, this policy has had unintended consequences. Many TCNs who have been working in Malta for years now find themselves unable to obtain work permits, even for transferring within the same company. This has left many in a precarious position, unable to continue working legally in Malta despite their long-term contributions to the economy.
The situation has sparked a broader debate about the balance between protecting local workers and ensuring fair treatment for foreign employees. As the Maltese government moves forward with its new policy, the voices of TCNs are becoming increasingly vital in shaping the conversation around labor rights and exploitation in Malta.
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