Italian unions unleash massive strike action to demand a fair and functioning transport sector
We stand with our affiliates as they bring Italy to a standstill this week. The government is undermining the transport sector, while refusing to enter into meaningful dialogue with unions. Investment and clear rules are needed to deliver quality transport for Italians and decent conditions for transport workers.
Ursula von der Leyen: now the real work begins
The European Commission has its new President, and for the first time ever a woman will lead. Now she must show that she understands the hopes and concerns of working people across Europe. It is time for a progressive EU programme with Fair Transport at its heart!
Karima Delli is reelected as Chair of the European Parliament Transport Committee
The French Green has been a supporter of our campaigns and demands in the past, and we congratulate her on returning to the role.
Wage inequality in Europe: Transport workers across the continent deserve fair pay
In this article for Transportarbetaren, the magazine of our affiliate the Swedish Transport Workers’ Union, ETF President Frank Moreels argues that wage inequality is dangerous for Europe. Working people and their unions need to take the lead on this issue. In fact, we already are!
Spanish transport unions issue joint demand for a social Europe that works for workers
At a joint meeting in Madrid, we issued a joint declaration with our Spanish affiliates Comisiones Obreras and UGT. Working people in Europe need a more social outlook from their political leaders and the EU. The ETF also needs to change, so that we are better focused on the challenges of tomorrow.
Will the new European Parliament President deliver for transport workers?
This week the EU has chosen new leaders for its key institutions, but most of the candidates are not exactly progressive. One exception is David Sassoli, the Italian chosen to lead the European Parliament for the next 30 months. We sent him an open letter to remind him of his previous commitments to workers’ rights, and make clear how urgently working people in Europe need a new approach.
It’s all on track for women in rail!
Social partners ETF and CER have given a green light for the start of negotiations on an autonomous agreement about women in rail. Meeting at the Rail Social Dialogue Steering Committee, the two organisations also discussed working conditions for mobile workers engaged in cross-border rail services.
As Ryanair plans move to Malta, international transport unions meet Maltese government
The budget airline is creating various subsidiaries. Aircraft will be moved from France, Germany and Italy to the newly launched Malta Air. These plans must not undermine the better conditions which unions have won from Ryanair in recent months. We met the Maltese Tourism Ministry to set out our position.
Saving a life is NOT a crime! We welcome the release of Captain Carola Rackete
An Italian judge has ordered the release of the captain of the Sea Watch 3, a migrant rescue ship who had been arrested for breaking an Italian naval blockade after saving the lives of 40 migrants in the Mediterranean. Her release is a victory for justice, but this humanitarian crisis cannot be tackled by NGOs or merchant ships alone. The EU and its Member States must work together to save lives and share the burden of dealing with this crisis.
A trade union future for Europe
Belgian ETF affiliate hosts a seminar about the the future of trade unionism in Europe. Our Acting General Secretary was there to explain why international solidarity is the only way for transport workers to defend themselves in an interconnected world.
Modern challenges for the port sector revealed by EU Social Partners’ joint study
This study is the first-ever attempt to look at how the technological and business choices made by shipping companies impact the main service providers that ships depend on: terminals and their employees. It is now high-time for shipping lines to open discussions with the other actors of the maritime transport chain.