Over 20 Groups Slam Budget 2027 As ‘Socially Unjust & Anti-Worker’

More than 20 organisations have issued a joint statement criticising the 2027 Budget, describing it as socially unjust and claiming it unfairly targets foreign workers, particularly third-country nationals.

The organisations argued that the Budget introduces measures that place a greater financial burden on third-country nationals by requiring them to pay for certain basic services that remain free for others.

They said these policies disproportionately affect vulnerable workers and families while also denying them employment rights enjoyed by other employees.

According to the statement, the measures are discriminatory and risk creating further divisions in Maltese society.

The organisations also questioned whether the proposals comply with Malta's Constitution and European Union laws on equality, non-discrimination and workers' rights.

They argued that the Government has relied heavily on foreign workers to support Malta's economic growth, particularly in lower-paid sectors, and said the new measures would do little to reduce the country's dependence on migrant labour.

Instead, they claimed the policies would place additional financial pressure on some of the least wealthy members of society.

The organisations warned that the measures could lead to greater marginalisation of foreign workers while encouraging division and exploitation. They called on the Government to withdraw what they described as anti-worker measures and instead work towards a fairer and more sustainable economic model that places workers' rights, dignity and social justice at its centre.

The statement was signed by 23 organisations, including Aditus Foundation, Moviment Graffitti, SOS Malta, TCN Alliance, MGRM and Friends of the Earth Malta.

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