Worker’s Day, which is observed on May 1st, honours the accomplishments and efforts of employees in Malta. This day holds special significance for Maltese society as it honours individuals who over the years have campaigned for improved working conditions, just pay, and workers’ rights.

The history of Worker’s Day in Malta dates back to the early 20th century when the country was still under British rule. In 1942, the General Workers’ Union (GWU) was founded, becoming one of the oldest and most influential trade unions in the country. The first unofficial strike began on August 24, 1943, as a result of the shipyards’ management’s refusal to budge on the demands of the employees. A salary rise was announced in late September, but because it fell short of the employees’ and their representatives’ initial requests, the offer was swiftly rejected, which was consequently followed on September 28 by another strike action. In sympathy with their coworkers, many additional employees from other British defence facilities laid down their tools in the days that followed. The few remaining unions abandoned their support for the striking employees out of concern for the consequences and reprisals of the British government on the Island, leaving the GWU to handle this matter alone.

Interestingly, today, Birkirkara is also honouring St. Joseph the Worker. One of Malta’s main cities, Birkirkara, has a second parish, the church of St. Joseph the Worker, which was constructed in the late 1960s to accommodate the area’s expanding population.