On 29–30 October 2025, the European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF), together with its affiliate LCGB (Luxembourg), hosted a lively two-day seminar in Bonn entitled “Future of Inland Navigation.” The event formed part of the EU co-funded project “Delivering Fair Transport for All.” After two previous seminars focused entirely on the Danube region, this edition turned the spotlight on how to make inland navigation more appealing to the next generation — by attracting new talent, fostering fresh skills, and equipping workers for the evolving demands of the sector.
The programme opened with Jaap Gebraad, Secretary-General of the Waterborne Technology Platform, who presented the Strategic Research Agenda of the Waterborne Sector. He shared insights into the industry’s innovation roadmap, highlighting the role of alternative fuels, remotely piloted vessels, and digitalisation, as well as recent EU policy initiatives shaping these developments. His presentation set the stage for a discussion on how technological progress can drive sustainability and efficiency across Europe’s inland waterways.
Next, Tim Gödde, Director of Ship Management at HGK, offered an employer’s perspective on the challenges currently facing the sector. He addressed the pressing need for upskilling and reskilling, the ongoing shortage of qualified labour, and the importance of preparing the workforce for digital transformation. He also showcased HGK’s efforts to advance digitalisation, explore alternative fuels, and develop innovative vessel designs that meet both environmental and operational goals.
The first day concluded with Jacques Kerkhof, Chair of the ETF Inland Waterways Section and BTB-ABVV Federal Secretary, who is himself a third-generation crew member on the inland waterways. He presented the ETF’s vision for education and training, underlining the importance of making the profession more inclusive and accessible. He also emphasised the need to attract side entrants to the industry. He introduced the newly opened NK2 Inland Waterways Training Centre in Antwerp — a modern facility dedicated to preparing the next generation of skilled professionals.
On the second day, discussions continued with the international delegation, focusing on key policy files, including the upcoming European Commission proposal on crewing and e-tools, as well as issues related to social security, visa procedures, and the river cruise sector. The exchanges underscored the importance of collaboration between social partners in shaping a fair and forward-looking future for inland navigation.
The seminar concluded with a look ahead to the next steps. The fourth and final seminar in this series will take place on 17–18 November 2025 in Budapest, Hungary. Returning to the Danube region, the event will feature a discussion with the Danube Commission and continue the dialogue on how to build a modern, sustainable, and socially just inland navigation sector.
