On 17–18 November 2024, the European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) hosted the fourth and final seminar of the inland waterways pillar of the EU-funded project Delivering Fair Transport for All. As with the previous seminars, this session focused entirely on the Danube region.
The first day featured a productive exchange with the Danube Commission on strengthening the involvement of the ETF and its affiliates in the work of this intergovernmental organisation established by the Belgrade Convention of 1948. Discussions addressed the priorities of both the Commission and the ETF, with particular attention to the recognition of professional qualifications and the specific challenges surrounding push barges in the Danube basin. Building on positive experiences with the Central Commission for the Navigation of the Rhine (CCNR), the parties agreed that the ETF will begin by contributing to the newly created working group on personnel. This will serve as a stepping stone toward seeking formal observer status and deepening cooperation to improve working conditions for inland waterway workers in the region.
The second day was devoted to an internal meeting for ETF affiliates. Representatives of the Union of Boatmen and Seafarers of Serbia and the Seamen’s Syndicate of Bulgaria outlined the main challenges facing the Danube region, including insufficient oversight, the lack of EU recognition of professional qualifications for boatmasters and boatmen from non-EU countries, and the overall difficult situation in the sector.
Participants also continued discussions on the future of the ETF river cruise campaign. It was agreed to develop an organising toolbox that affiliates can use to advocate for better working conditions in the European river cruise industry. Particular concern was raised about the situation of horeca personnel—predominantly third-country nationals—who are especially vulnerable to exploitation, with working time and salary conditions often falling below acceptable standards. To address this, the ETF Section will seek support from the well-established network of ITF inspectors, whose extensive experience with inspections of seagoing vessels will be valuable. Thanks to last year’s social partners’ agreement, ETF affiliates now have free access on board river cruise vessels.
Finally, participants evaluated the four project seminars. While they agreed that significant progress has been made—especially in communication and stakeholder outreach—other areas, such as recognition of qualifications and enforcement gaps, remain unresolved. For this reason, the ETF and its affiliates will continue to prioritise the Danube region in their future work.
