3.2 Administration and governance
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Governance
The overarching responsibility for Youth Employment lies within the Ministry for Home Affairs, Security and Employment particularly through the National Employment Policy 2021-2030. The Public Employment Service (PES) within the Ministry is called Jobsplus. Jobplus is responsible for managing the Youth Guarantee.
The overarching responsibility for Youth Entrepreneurship lies within the Ministry for the Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects. The operating arm of the Ministry in terms of entrepreneurship is Malta Enterprise, the national economic development agency.
Main actors
Employment
The main public entities that hold the responsibility for youth employment in Malta through respective agencies and departments. The Ministry for Home Affairs, Security and Employment for through Jobsplus.
Jobsplus is Malta’s Public Employment Service (PES), playing a central role in the Maltese labour market by connecting job seekers with employers. Established in 1990 as the Employment and Training Corporation (ETC), it has evolved into a comprehensive employment ecosystem supporting both individuals and businesses. Jobsplus implements active labour market policies, manages EU-funded schemes, and conducts research to address the changing dynamics of the workforce. With a focus on labour mobility, human capital investment, and career development, it offers modern, digital solutions and personalised support to improve employment accessibility across the Maltese Islands. By adapting to the challenges of digitalisation and globalisation, Jobsplus continues to enhance opportunities for job seekers while assisting employers in meeting their workforce needs.
The Department for Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER) operates under the Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue within the Office of the Prime Minister and is responsible for safeguarding the interests of all parties in employment contracts while promoting a healthy employment relationship. It regulates employment conditions across various sectors, ensuring the fair enforcement of rights and obligations. The department also provides support to individuals whose employment has been terminated and promotes best practices in line with existing employment legislation. DIER plays a key role in facilitating positive industrial relations between employers’ associations and trade unions and provides mechanisms for the voluntary settlement of trade disputes. Internationally, it collaborates with the European Union, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and other bodies to ensure Malta complies with its labour-related commitments. Through these efforts, the DIER contributes to maintaining fair and transparent employment practices and fostering a balanced labour environment.
The National Skills Council within the Ministry for Education, Sport, Research and Innovation also plays a key role in understanding and anticipating current and future workforce skills through evidence-based practices. It advises on policy changes to address skill gaps and mismatches in Malta’s labour market, which are often temporarily filled by foreign workers. With the ever-evolving labour market creating both challenges and opportunities, the Council focuses on ensuring Malta’s workforce remains resilient and competitive by promoting long-term solutions and sustainable skill development.
Aside from public bodies, there are also a number of NGOs that are considered as stakeholders in this policy field. The Malta Employers’ Association (MEA) is a key national representative body formally recognized as a crucial social partner in Malta’s employment landscape. As the official voice of employers, the MEA actively participates in social dialogue, engaging with the government, policymakers, trade unions, and other constituted bodies. Also, the General Workers’ Union (GWU) and Union Ħaddiema Magħqudin (UĦM) are the two largest trade unions in Malta, representing workers across various industries. Both unions play a crucial role in protecting workers' rights, improving working conditions, and advocating for fair employment practices. They engage in social dialogue with employers and policymakers to ensure a balance between work and personal life while adapting to the changing needs of the labour market. Through their efforts, they provide support and representation to employees, fostering a fair and equitable work environment.
Entrepreneurship
Malta Enterprise is the national economic development agency responsible for attracting foreign direct investment, supporting the growth of existing businesses, and promoting youth entrepreneurship. Operating under the Ministry for the Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects, the agency plays a vital role in shaping Malta’s economic landscape. With roots dating back to the 1950s, it leverages decades of experience to foster Malta’s industrial and economic development. It also advises the government on economic policy, drawing from its close collaboration with key economic stakeholders. As the national contact point for the Enterprise Europe Network, Malta Enterprise facilitates connections between Maltese businesses and counterparts in over 60 countries, promoting international collaboration and business growth. The agency engages with investors across various sectors, ensuring tailored support to meet specific business needs. Committed to fostering long-term investment, Malta Enterprise works closely with companies to address challenges and adapt to changing economic conditions. Its focus on youth entrepreneurship includes providing resources, funding opportunities, and guidance to empower young people in establishing and growing their businesses. This approach strengthens sustainable business relationships that benefit both investors and the Maltese economy.
JA Malta is a leading youth NGO dedicated to providing hands-on, immersive learning experiences in areas such as entrepreneurship. Operating under the global umbrella of JA Worldwide, JA Malta equips young people with the skills and knowledge to succeed in the modern economy and become future innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders. Since its establishment in 1989, JA Malta has been offering educational programs to Maltese young people, beginning with its flagship 'Young Enterprise' programme. the organization delivers a range of initiatives catering to individuals aged 5 to 30 years old. Through these programmes, JA Malta fosters youth entrepreneurship, encourages business innovation, and supports career development, contributing to Malta’s broader employment and economic policies.
Cross-sectorial cooperation
Malta recognises that for the Youth Guarantee programme to be effective, partnership approaches with key stakeholders are essential. To this effect, an inter-agency approach is adopted where multiple actors collaborate to provide a holistic service to these young people. Such stakeholders include Malta College for Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) and Aġenzija Żgħażagħ - Malta’s National Youth Agency.
MCAST, is Malta’s leading vocational education and training institution, offering a comprehensive range of courses spanning from MQF Level 1 to MQF Level 8. It is dedicated to fostering student advancement by providing a seamless pathway for progression to higher levels, thus empowering students with the skills and knowledge needed for their future careers. Aġenzija Żgħażagħ is the entity entrusted with mainstreaming youth issues into national policies and has a central role in bringing together the interests of youth with government policies.
Another important stakeholder is the Directorate for Lifelong Learning and Early School Leavers which is the contact point established within the compulsory education structure to capture early school leavers from the education stream.