In the last two years, the ETF has implemented the NGB Project – No going back: Protecting rights and promoting social dialogue in aviation through times of crisis. The NGB Toolbox Suite and NGB Trade Union Guide are now available for download.

In a bold stand against exploitation, several Zimbabwean truck drivers employed by Hegelmann, a major European haulier, refused to continue work in January 2024, exposing severe labor abuses. Recruited with promises of fair wages, they faced unpaid salaries, inadequate living conditions, and demands to repay thousands of euros in alleged "costs." Trade unions have stepped in to provide support—offering food, legal assistance, and safe accommodation—while flagging violations to authorities.

The data from 2013 to 2023 makes it clear that the modal shift is nowhere near the necessary pace. While some countries have made modest progress, the overall trend is one of stagnation and missed opportunities. Achieving the Green Deal’s objectives will require stronger political will, substantial investment, and decisive action.

Women in aviation - n this joint statement, the aviation social partners agree that the issue of gender balance in aviation should be considered a high priority for all stakeholders involved in the aviation sector.

ETF expresses its deepest sympathy and solidarity with the victims of the tragic attack that occurred during the ver.di (Vereinte Dienstleistungsgewerkschaft) trade union strike rally on Thursday morning, when a car drove into the rally, causing multiple injuries, including several very serious cases.

On 13 February, ETF joined Belgian trade unions in nationwide protests against the new government’s austerity measures, which threaten workers’ rights, working conditions, and public services. ETF stands in full solidarity with our Belgian affiliates as they resist unprecedented attacks on their working conditions, the integrity of their railway system, and the principles of social dialogue.

Alongside IndustriAll Europe, ETF was one of only two trade union representatives invited to the dialogue, highlighting the importance of workers’ voices in shaping the future of the automotive sector and its broader impact on the mobility ecosystem. The two European Federations have been working to shape a joint approach to encompass the views of all workers in the mobility ecosystem.

Within the framework of the Social Sectoral Dialogue on Railways, the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER) and the European Transport Workers' Federation (ETF) have issued a joint statement emphasizing the pivotal role of rail freight in Europe's transition to a sustainable and efficient transport system. That statement effectively highlights the importance of focusing on key areas to ensure the future success and competitiveness of rail freight in the EU. It also emphasizes the need for decision-makers to enhance the overall competitiveness framework by implementing specific measures.

Europe’s transport sector is the backbone of the EU internal market and outreach to the world. A strong sector is a prerequisite for building a competitive, net-zero and resilient Europe. Open letter to the Ministers of the General Affairs Council and the Ministers of the Economic and Financial Affairs Council

The ETF has welcomed the EESC’s opinion, noting its alignment with the federation’s long-standing advocacy for fair treatment and improved working conditions for seafarers. The inclusion of these key elements in the opinion reflects the collaborative efforts of trade unions and workers’ representatives in shaping a more equitable and sustainable future for the maritime industry.

The ETF has also raised concerns over plans to dismantle Europe’s largest rail freight operator, warning that such measures would have devastating consequences for railway workers, the climate, and Europe’s industries. Rail is a cornerstone of the European Green Deal, and any move to weaken the sector would undermine efforts to achieve sustainable mobility and reduce carbon emissions.

On 29 January 2025, the European Commission adopted its long-anticipated Competitiveness Compass. The communication “establishes competitiveness as one of the EU’s overarching principles for action” and outlines a roadmap featuring initiatives across several areas. Regrettably, the whole strategy is based on the assumption that the EU social model needs to be preserved. We rather believe it needs to be rebuilt.