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News March 15, 2024

Political strikes close Finnish ports

In Finland, a right-wing government has launched the most serious attack on workers’ rights and social security in the history of the Finnish welfare state. The unions are fighting to defend the country’s social model. On 11 March trade unions began a wave of political strike action that is currently intended to continue for two weeks. The strikes will, among other actions, close all cargo handling in Finnish ports. Photo: Jani Laukkanen.

Statement March 12, 2024

Platform Directive: A Win For Platform Workers and Their Unions

Overall, this directive will help improve the situation of platform workers by giving them easier access to their employment rights. While it does not go as far as we would have liked but it is a very valuable tool for platforms and unions to take action at national level. For the first time ever, it provides better data privacy and regulation of algorithmic management.

Press Release March 6, 2024

ETF and River Cruise Industry sign binding framework agreement

On March 6, during the ITB in Berlin, EBU, ETF and IG RiverCruise signed a binding framework agreement to improve the working conditions on board river cruise vessels as well as to ensure a level playing field for the sector. This agreement is a first important step for the improvement of the livelihoods of thousands of workers.

News March 1, 2024

Public Transport: Shortage Crisis threatens Jobs of the Future and Demands Action

New reports by the European Commission’s Expert Group on Urban Mobility (EGUM) paint a concerning picture of a 40% rise in driver shortages across Europe since 2020, leaving the continent with a gap of 105,000 drivers. This crisis, fueled by an ageing workforce and competition from other sectors, threatens the smooth operation of public transport systems, which are vital for our cities’ future. ETF demands action now.

Statement February 29, 2024

The Parliament’s Vote on Revised Driving License Rules Spells Disaster for the Sector

The European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) is deeply troubled by the outcome of yesterday’s vote in the European Parliament regarding revised rules for driving licenses. ETF is especially concerned about the proposal to require all EU Member States to allow 17-year-old lorry drivers to drive heavy goods vehicles. The decision on minimum age requirements marks a significant setback in efforts to ensure road safety and prioritise the improvement of working conditions for drivers across Europe.

News February 22, 2024

ETF and ETUI Train Logistics Union Reps on AI and Collective Bargaining Challenges

The European Transport Workers’ Federation partnered with the European Trade Union Institute (ETUI) to deliver a pilot training on the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digitalization in the logistics sector for union representatives. Held in Antwerp on February 7-8, 2024, the program aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by this rapidly evolving landscape while strengthening collective bargaining efforts on behalf of logistics workers.

In Focus

Press Release

ETF Launches Manifesto: A New Deal for Fair Transport

ETF announced the launch of the manifesto “A New Deal for Fair Transport,” today, ahead of the 2024 European Elections. This comprehensive manifesto outlines a series of critical demands aimed at reshaping the transport sector in Europe to ensure fairness, safety, and respect for all transport workers.

News

ETF Criticizes Proposed EU Fiscal Policies: A Threat to Transport Workers

In response to the EU finance ministers finalising the Council’s position on reforming the EU’s economic governance rules, the European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) has expressed serious concerns. These reforms, perceived as a renovation of austerity measures, are detrimental to workers, and public funding for transport in Europe.

News

ETF’s Executive Committee Meeting and Approved Documents – November 2023

The ETF Executive Committee met on November 29-30, 2023, in Berlin, marking a significant gathering of unions from across Europe. During two days, several topics were discussed, namely reports on ETF’s regular projects and budget. We had the opportunity to listen to workers about the ongoing work on sustainability, equality, women and youth.