We live in times of tremendous change and uncertainty. Established geopolitical relations, perspectives, and economic assumptions are being reassessed and reframed. In parallel, the effects of liberalisation continue to shape the aviation sector, increasing the vulnerability of the industry. Learn more about ETF priorities for the coming years in the ETF Vision for Civil Aviation here.

The report documents how complex subcontracting chains are being used across the EU to shift responsibility, reduce wages, and suppress workers’ rights – particularly affecting migrant and third-country national workers. Union representatives stressed that this is not a loophole, but a deliberate and growing business model that traps workers in precarious and unsafe conditions.

The European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) and its affiliates marked Driver Fatigue Action Day on June 21, 2025, as part of a broader series of successful coordinated actions carried out throughout the week and beyond. Trade unions across Europe organised activities to draw attention to one of the most pressing safety challenges in European road transport.

The ETF welcomes the European Commission’s launch of the European Ocean Pact, recognising the initiative as an important step toward a sustainable, inclusive, and fair blue economy. Representing over five million transport workers across Europe, including in fisheries, maritime transport, and ports, the ETF strongly supports the Pact’s environmental ambitions, but insists that the people who work on the ocean must be at the heart of the transition. 

In early June, dockers in Europe took action by refusing to handle military cargo directed to the port of Haifa, Israel.  Such actions highlight the growing urgency to end wars and uphold peace – and must not be criminalised. Lawful protests and the refusal to transport military equipment are legitimate expressions of conscience that deserve protection. 

Public transport plays a pivotal role in making societies function, promoting social cohesion and enhancing everyone’s quality of life. It is the most sustainable form of transport, easily accessible to all. It helps reduce noise and air pollution and is the most effective way to cut greenhouse gas emissions from mobility.

On UN Public Service Day, ETF honours the vital role of public services in shaping fairer, greener societies. Few are as essential – or as misunderstood – as rail. It’s not just transport: it’s a public good, a climate solution, and a pillar of social justice. For years, the EU praised Sweden’s liberalised rail model. But a new report by Swedish think tank Katalys confirms what unions have long warned: liberalisation has failed. The promise of efficiency gave way to fragmentation and decline. It’s time to rethink rail—not as a market, but as a service for people and planet.