The impact and complex effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the working environment and the use of coworking spaces in Malta

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions related to it during the first wave have altered the way people used to operate and work across the world, including that of Malta. This chapter will focus on how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted coworking spaces in Malta and how this may affect the future of coworking spaces within Malta. Malta is located in the centre of the Mediterranean and is a highly densely populated country. The population of Malta is continuously increasing, yet the highest population increase was mainly due to the increase in foreigners living in Malta for employment purposes. As a matter of fact, the population has increased from 9% of the total population in 2014 to 20% in 2022. Indeed, the idea and use of coworking spaces in Malta started around 2014 when Malta increased its incentives concerning the quaternary industry. The number of Maltese employees working remotely or teleworking until the COVID-19 pandemic was 11.7%, below the average of the European Union. Within the Maltese context, the possibility of remote working highly depends on the employer and the type of work. Yet, during the pandemic months of March and April 2020, around a third of the Maltese population was working from home. Presently, there are around 30 official coworking spaces in Malta, most of which are predominantly located in very central areas: Valletta, Sliema, St Julians and Mosta. Informal coworking spaces such as libraries or cafeterias have been long established in Malta. However, such spaces have not been utilized by employees but by self-employed persons and students. Considering the scenario, this chapter aims to explore how the COVID-19 pandemic may be considered a determinant of change, causing a shift in where people choose to operate and work within the Maltese context. During the COVID-19 soft lockdown that took place between the 12th March and early July 2020, Maltese employees in the public and private sectors worked remotely, mostly from home. Therefore, this chapter aims to explore: (i) if coworking spaces may be considered an alternative space of work and; (ii) if coworking spaces can be utilised as places of work during and following the COVID-19 pandemic.