'No such thing as free money' - Employers warn against election 'bidding wars'
MEA slams 'populist tone' of current political campaign
The Malta Employers’s Association warned political parties to steer clear from “short-term electoral giveaways” and aim for a “sustainable economic model”.
Launching its memorandum to political parties ahead of the general election, the MEA slammed the “populist tone” of the current campaign and warned against the “bidding approach where political parties compete with poorly costed and unrealistic promises to win votes”.
It highlighted the €1,000 super bonus to all full-time employees which will cost €200 million, pointing out this was equivalent to twice the annual contribution to the University.
“The temptation to win short-term support through eye-catching pledges is deeply irresponsible,” MEA president Ivan Refalo said.
“There is no such thing as free money. Every unaffordable promise ultimately translates into higher debt, higher taxes, or reduced opportunities for the next generation.”
The Association appealed to the political parties to join forces and, together with the social partners, seek consensus on matters of national priority.
“Leadership is not measured by how much one promises, but by how responsibly one governs,” Refalo said.
“Malta deserves policies that are realistic, coherent and anchored in a long‑term vision that serves both today’s society and tomorrow’s citizens”
The MEA’s comments come days after the Malta Chamber similarly rapped the two major political parties for their “populist” electoral pledges, saying they would “harm the business community and Malta’s economy if implemented”.
In its memorandum, the MEA listed a number of proposals “anchored in traditional values: responsibility, fairness, accountability and respect for work and enterprise”.
Its proposals target 12 strategic pillars designed to transform the economic landscape.
The MEA urged for more fiscal responsibility, ensuring that “today’s political spending does not become tomorrow’s tax burden”.
The proposals include a call for a reduction in the dependence on imported labour and investment in high-value sectors and education to ensure Malta is prepared for the AI revolution.
The MEA called for a focus on a balanced market that promotes flexibility and work-life balance without compromising operational realities.
It also urged authorities to address Malta’s low fertility rate as an “existential challenge” by implementing a holistic support plan for families.
On the environment, the MEA urged for a shift away from “degradation, overdevelopment and pollution”.
It also insisted on strengthening governance structures to “restore faith in national institutions” through non-negotiable transparency and ethical standards”.