The Women’s Lobby in Malta has expressed concerns that the Malta Chamber is out of touch with the needs of working families regarding family leave policies. The Malta Chamber recently emphasized the importance of productivity in relation to family leave policies, sparking a debate on the balance between work and family responsibilities.
In April 2025, Malta introduced a law providing employees with a minimum of 32 hours of paid urgent family leave per year, which can be used in cases of accidents, sudden illness, births, or deaths of immediate family members. This development aims to support employees in managing their work-life balance.
The Women’s Lobby likely argues that family-friendly policies are essential for promoting gender equality and supporting working families. In contrast, the Malta Chamber’s stance may prioritize productivity and economic concerns. This debate highlights the need for a balanced approach that considers both the needs of employees and employers.