Automation in Danube inland ports: ETF contribution to the debate

Upon the invitation of the Danube Commission, we participated in the Expert Meeting on the Development of Ports and Port Operations in Ruse (Bulgaria). The ETF was represented by Josef Maurer, Head of Aviation and Maritime, as well as Dencho Denchev from our Bulgarian affiliate FTTUB. We were invited to share the workers’ perspective on the conditions for the acceptance of automation and digitalization by port workers.

Our contribution is founded on the experience from both seaports and inland ports but also the broader perspective of workers from other transport sectors. We stressed that digitalisation and automation are not neutral technological processes, but developments shaped by political and economic choices with direct consequences for employment, working conditions and the organisation of work. The key question is therefore not whether digitalisation will happen, but under which conditions and with whose involvement.

In this context, we reiterated several core principles:

• No automation without negotiation – technological change must be subject to social dialogue and collective bargaining
• Workers must have a real voice in decision-making processes
• Investment in people must match investment in technology
• Automation must not shift risks onto workers

These principles are essential to ensuring a fair and sustainable transition in inland ports.

During the panel discussion on how to ensure workers support digitalisation despite concerns over job losses, ETF highlighted the need to move beyond technical solutions and towards what it describes as “fair transition ecosystems.”

This includes:

• Strong collective agreements safeguarding employment and working conditions
• Public funding tied to clear social conditionalities
• Joint governance frameworks involving port authorities, operators, trade unions and training providers
• Measures to ensure employment continuity, redeployment and career pathways

ETF underlined that without such safeguards, digitalisation risks increasing job insecurity and undermining trust among workers.

ETF also emphasised that training and upskilling, while essential, cannot be treated as standalone solutions. Skills development must be embedded in broader frameworks that include employment guarantees, career progression and social dialogue.

The transformation of work in ports will require new digital and technical competences, alongside hybrid skill profiles combining operational and digital knowledge. Ensuring access to quality training through collective agreements will be key to a successful transition.

ETF’s participation in the meeting reflects its broader commitment to reinforcing the role of trade unions in shaping the future of inland waterway transport in the Danube region.