PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR EUROPEAN FUNDS, SOCIAL DIALOGUE AND CONSUMER PROTECTION Continuing to build safer and more inclusive workplaces through social dialogue – DIER seminar during the month dedicated to Women, Peace and Security

Minister for European Funds, Social Dialogue and Consumer Protection Keith Azzopardi Tanti addressed a seminar organised by the Department for Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER), themed Safe and Dignified Workplaces for Women. The seminar highlighted the importance of Malta continuing to build a safer, fairer and more dignified labour market, where every person, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to work, progress in their career and fulfil their potential in an environment free from discrimination, harassment and victimisation.

During his intervention, Minister Keith Azzopardi Tanti welcomed this initiative by the DIER and said that this Government has consistently worked to further strengthen the country's framework for equality and protection in the workplace. He noted that work has been carried out on various laws and measures, including the Equality for Men and Women Act, which provides important foundations for protecting workers' rights and ensuring that their dignity is respected.

“We want a labour market where every woman knows her rights, knows where she can turn for support, and can be assured that if she speaks up, her voice will be heard and not ignored. Therefore, this seminar should not only be a space where we discuss the legal framework and the challenges we face. We want this to be an opportunity and another step towards greater awareness, greater responsibility and, above all, concrete action," the Minister stated.

Diane Vella Muscat, Director General of DIER, said that, “This day dedicated to women's dignity and safety in the workplace was marked to reflect on the progress made and the challenges we face, and to encourage discussion aimed at continuing to create respectful and dignified working environments."

Also present in this seminar were representatives from GWU, University of Malta, NCPE, Victim Support Agency, Malta Employers Association, Malta Chamber and the National Council of Women.

The seminar served as a platform for discussion and further strengthened awareness of the importance of safe, fair and inclusive workplaces, while encouraging greater collaboration and concrete action among all stakeholders.