GWU Youths
ABOUT US
The General Workers’ Union (GWU) is the largest trade union in Malta. The GWU consists of members from all sectors of work. Being part of GWU means having the weight of Malta’s leading trade union behind you.
WHO WE ARE
We believe every young person deserves to know their rights, have their voice heard and be part of building a stronger and fairer future through the trade union movement.
Mission, Vision and Values.
Brand Vision
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Mission, Vision and Values.
Mission
GWU Youths educates, represents and empowers young people through workplace rights, training, leadership opportunities and community engagement.
We work to ensure young people's voices are heard, their rights are protected, and everyone has equal opportunities in a fair and inclusive society.
Mission, Vision and Values.
Purpose
Helping young people succeed in work and life by giving them knowledge, confidence and opportunities.
Mission, Vision and Values.
Core Values
Empowerment, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion, Protection, Competence, Solidarity, Respect, Integrity, Participation, Innovation.
Our Story / History
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A Legacy of Standing Up for Workers
The General Workers' Union (GWU) was founded in 1943, during one of the most challenging periods in Malta's history. At a time when workers faced uncertainty, difficult working conditions and limited protection, a group of determined individuals came together with a shared vision—to create a strong organisation that would protect workers' rights, improve working conditions and promote social justice.
Since its foundation, the GWU has played a leading role in improving the lives of workers across Malta. Through collective representation, dialogue and advocacy, the Union has contributed to better wages, safer workplaces, stronger employment rights and greater social progress, becoming Malta's largest and most established trade union.
The Beginning of GWU Youths
In 1944, just one year after the General Workers' Union was founded, a Youth Rally brought together young workers from across Malta, leading to the establishment of the Young Workers' Movement. This marked the beginning of a dedicated platform that gave young people an active voice within the trade union movement.
A year later, in 1945, the first Executive Committee was formed, laying the foundations for the organisation that is now known as GWU Youths.
Today, GWU Youths continues to empower students and young workers through education, representation and active participation, ensuring that the next generation plays a key role in shaping the future of work and the trade union movement.
Building the Future Together
For over 80 years, the General Workers' Union has evolved alongside Malta's workforce. GWU Youths continues this legacy by inspiring a new generation to understand their rights, develop their skills and contribute to creating fairer workplaces and stronger communities.
Through education, campaigns, volunteering, leadership opportunities and national and international representation, GWU Youths ensures that young people's voices continue to shape the future of work.
MILESTONES
1943
General Workers' Union founded.
1944
Young Workers' Movement established following the first Youth Rally.
1945
First Executive Committee convenes.
1980s–2000s
Expansion of youth education, campaigns and representation.
Today
GWU Youths represents students and young workers across Malta, participates in KNŻ and ETUC initiatives, organises campaigns, training, conferences and advocacy activities, and continues to develop the next generation of trade union leaders.