Seafarers manage 90% of global trade, ensuring the flow of maritime logistics and vessel operations. The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) has been a steadfast advocate for their rights and welfare since 1896.
The ITF safeguards the interests of over 600,000 seafarers globally, who are part of its affiliated unions. It champions improvements in crew management, upholds maritime regulations, and ensures ship safety on international trade routes.
Through partnerships with organizations like the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the ITF tackles issues such as abandonment, fair treatment, and bullying in the maritime industry.
The ITF's influence extends beyond maritime workers, organizing employees in sectors like port facilities, cargo handling, and civil aviation. Through global campaigns and solidarity, it champions the rights and well-being of all transport workers, regardless of their nationality or ship's flag.
Key Takeaways
The ITF represents over 600,000 seafarers worldwide, fighting for their rights and welfare
200,000 seafarers have been trapped on board due to the Covid-19 pandemic, yet they continue to facilitate 90% of global trade
The ITF collaborates with international organizations to address key issues faced by seafarers, such as abandonment and fair treatment
The organization also supports workers in various transport sectors, including ports, cargo handling, and civil aviation
Through international campaigns and solidarity, the ITF fights for the rights and well-being of all transport workers
The Role of ITF in the Maritime Industry
The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) is a key player in the maritime sector. It champions the rights and welfare of seafarers globally. As a global seafarer representation entity, the ITF fights for fair working conditions, robust shipping regulations, and the safeguarding of crew rights.
Representing Over 600,000 Seafarers Worldwide
ITF stands up for over 600,000 seafarers through its affiliated unions across the world. It unites these unions to advocate for the rights and needs of seafarers, regardless of their nationality or ship's flag.
Improving Conditions for Seafarers of All Nationalities
Improving working conditions for seafarers of all backgrounds is a core aim of the ITF. It ensures seafarers receive fair pay, work in safe environments, and get adequate rest. The ITF also aids seafarers facing challenges like abandonment or unpaid wages.
In 2023, the ITF saw an 11% jump in abandonment complaints, with 132 vessels reported abandoned. The ITF tackled 129 cases of unpaid wages, recovering over $10.9 million from abandoned ships, with claims totalling $12.1 million.
Year | Abandonment Complaints | Vessels Abandoned | Owed Wages Recovered |
2022 | - | - | - |
2023 | 11% increase | 132 | $10.9 million |
Ensuring Adequate Regulation of the Shipping Industry
The ITF pushes for the shipping industry's proper regulation to protect seafarers' rights. It champions for the enforcement of international laws and standards, like the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), which sets basic working and living conditions on ships.
ITF negotiates with shipowners and companies for fair employment conditions. These ITF Agreements cover wages, working hours, and welfare, ensuring seafarers' rights are upheld.
"ITF Agreements are a crucial tool in ensuring that seafarers are employed under fair and decent conditions. By negotiating these agreements with shipowners and shipping companies, we can help protect the rights and well-being of seafarers worldwide." - Stephen Cotton, ITF General Secretary
The ITF's relentless efforts to represent seafarers, enhance working conditions, and regulate the shipping industry are vital. It safeguards the rights and interests of maritime workers globally.
ITF's Opposition to Flags of Convenience (FOCs)
The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) has led the fight against Flags of Convenience (FOCs) in the maritime sector for over five decades. FOCs let shipowners register their vessels in countries with allegedly weaker regulations, leading to poor working conditions and seafarer exploitation. The ITF claims this system aids tax avoidance and weakens shipowner accountability.
FOCs Allow Shipowners to Avoid Taxation and Regulation
FOCs enable shipowners to register in countries with little oversight, avoiding taxes and strict regulations. This has created a race to the bottom, with flag states offering lenient rules to attract owners. Many FOC ships operate under substandard conditions, endangering seafarer safety and well-being.
This lack of accountability results in abandoned seafarers and unpaid wages. For example, Abdul Naser Saleh has not been paid for seven years and was owed USD $140,000 in back wages. Nine Syrian seafarers on a Tanzanian-flagged ship have not been paid since July 2022.
ITF's 75-Year Fight Against the FOC System
The ITF has fought against FOCs for 75 years, pushing for transparency, fairness, and sustainability in maritime. It has exposed seafarer exploitation and flag state enforcement failures, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) rights were often denied to seafarers during this time.
Despite the ITF's efforts, FOCs still dominate the shipping industry. In 1986, the UNCTAD convention aimed to ban FOCs but didn't get enough ratifications. However, with growing focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria, the industry is under pressure to improve transparency and sustainability.
Year | Tanzanian-Flagged Vessels Abandoned |
2020 | 6 |
2021 | 4 |
2022 | 5 |
Tanzania's case shows the challenges posed by FOCs. Zanzibar and mainland Tanzania have different registries, causing communication issues and enforcement problems. This has led to many abandoned vessels and seafarers. Currently, 11 Tanzanian-flagged ships are banned from European and North American ports due to deficiencies.
As tax reforms push shipowners away from offshore havens, genuine flag states can attract more owners and improve accountability. The ITF continues to fight for seafarer rights, advocating for a transparent and fair shipping industry free from FOC exploitation.
The History of ITF
The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) has a storied past, dedicated to organizing and supporting transport workers globally. Established in 1896 in London by European seafarers' and dockers' union leaders, it emerged as a response to the need for international solidarity. This was against the backdrop of strike-breaking tactics by shipowners. These pioneers understood that unity was key to combating worker exploitation in the maritime sector.
Founded in 1896 in London by European Seafarers' and Dockers' Union Leaders
The ITF's inception was a pivotal moment in the transport sector's trade union history. By amalgamating unions from various European nations, the founders created a formidable international entity. This entity would stand up for the rights and interests of transport workers worldwide. Their vision and resolve set the stage for the ITF to lead the charge in securing fair working conditions, wages, and benefits.
Organizing Workers Across Various Transport Sectors
Over time, the ITF has broadened its reach to include workers from numerous transport sectors. It now represents workers in ships, ports, railways, road freight, inland waterways, fisheries, tourism, and civil aviation. This diversification has enabled the ITF to wield its collective power effectively. It negotiates better deals for its members and champions industry-wide improvements.
The ITF's unwavering commitment to international solidarity has been a cornerstone of its existence. By fostering cooperation among transport worker organizations across borders, it has effectively addressed cross-border issues. This solidarity has been crucial in achieving victories, from enhanced safety standards to improved pay and working conditions.
As the ITF evolves with the global transport industry, its history underscores the significance of collective action and international solidarity. With a century of experience in organizing and advocating for transport workers, the ITF remains a crucial advocate for a fairer, more equitable world.
ITF's Core Objectives and Values
The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) stands as a global movement. It champions workers' rights and supports independent, democratic trade unionism in the transport sector. With 740 unions from 153 countries, it represents 20 million transport workers globally. The ITF fights for fundamental human and trade union rights through global campaigns and solidarity.
The ITF strongly opposes totalitarianism, aggression, and discrimination. It aims to enhance working conditions in the transport sector. The organization's core values include anti-discrimination, equality, and fair treatment for all workers, regardless of their nationality or background.
"The ITF is a global movement of transport workers' unions, representing the interests of workers in the transport industry. We are committed to promoting workers' rights, trade unionism, and anti-discrimination through global campaigning and solidarity."
Some of the ITF's key achievements in supporting maritime workers include:
Recovering $36.6 million in owed wages for seafarers in 2022
Reporting 262 cases of abandonment of seafarers to the International Labour Organisation (ILO) between 2020 and 2022
Collaborating with responsible brands to understand and address human rights risks in the maritime industry
Seafarers face unique challenges, often isolated and confined at sea. The ITF uses its global network and campaigns to protect their rights and ensure fair conditions in the maritime industry.
ITF's Core Objectives | Key Focus Areas |
Promoting workers' rights | Ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and proper rest hours |
Advancing trade unionism | Supporting the growth and development of independent, democratic unions |
Fighting discrimination | Advocating for equal treatment and opportunities for all workers |
Global campaigning | Mobilizing international solidarity to address issues affecting transport workers |
As the maritime industry evolves, the ITF remains steadfast in its mission. It continues to champion the rights and well-being of transport workers worldwide.
ITF's Key Activities in Supporting Maritime Workers
The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) plays a crucial role in supporting maritime workers worldwide. It brings together nearly 670 trade unions from 154 countries, fostering union collaboration. This unity allows the ITF to advocate effectively for the rights of 18 million transport workers, including over 600,000 seafarers.
Union Coordination and Information Sharing
The ITF supports maritime workers by facilitating coordination and information sharing among its unions. Through regular communication, unions exchange valuable insights and strategies. This approach helps unions address common challenges faced by seafarers and other transport workers more effectively.
Mobilizing International Solidarity During Conflicts
When unions face conflicts with employers or governments, the ITF mobilizes international solidarity. It uses its global network to organize campaigns and actions. This support is crucial for seafarers, who often face unique challenges due to the global shipping industry and the prevalence of Flags of Convenience (FOCs).
Campaigns Highlighting Issues Concerning Transport Workers
The ITF runs campaigns to highlight transport workers' concerns, including those of seafarers. These campaigns aim to raise awareness among the public and policymakers about the challenges workers face. Notable ITF campaigns include:
The "Flags of Convenience Campaign," which has improved conditions on nearly 12,988 FOC ships since 1948
Initiatives to combat seafarer abandonment and ensure timely payment of wages
Efforts to promote fair recruitment practices and prevent exploitation of migrant workers
Representing Workers' Interests in International Bodies
The ITF represents transport workers' interests in international bodies like the ILO, IMO, and ICAO. By participating in these forums, the ITF ensures workers' voices are heard. This representation is vital for promoting decent work and fair treatment for transport workers globally.
ITF Activity | Impact on Maritime Workers |
Union Coordination and Information Sharing | Facilitates collaboration and knowledge exchange among affiliated unions to address common challenges faced by seafarers |
Mobilizing International Solidarity During Conflicts | Provides direct support to unions in conflict with employers or governments, leveraging global network to protect workers' rights |
Campaigns Highlighting Issues Concerning Transport Workers | Raises awareness about the challenges faced by seafarers and advocates for better regulation and protection |
Representing Workers' Interests in International Bodies | Ensures the voices of seafarers are heard in the development and implementation of international labor standards and regulations |
The ITF's activities make it a powerful force in supporting maritime workers and seafarers. It promotes their rights and works towards a more equitable and sustainable global transport industry.
Joining ITF as a Trade Union
The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) invites any trade union with members in the transport sector to apply for affiliation. This affiliation offers unions a global network of solidarity and support. They benefit from the collective strength and expertise of over 600 affiliated unions worldwide.
Criteria and Procedures for Becoming an Affiliate
To become an ITF affiliate, unions must meet certain criteria and follow specific procedures. They should operate independently from government and corporate influences. They must be democratically run and transparent about union fees and policies. Furthermore, they must show a commitment to defending and advancing the rights and interests of transport workers.
The affiliation process starts with an application to the ITF, reviewed by the Executive Board. Upon approval, the union becomes a full ITF member. They can then participate in various activities, campaigns, and decision-making processes.
Reduced Affiliation Rates for Unions with Fewer Resources
The ITF offers reduced affiliation rates for unions with limited financial resources. This ensures that unions from diverse regions and economic backgrounds can join and contribute to the global fight for transport workers' rights.
Union Size (Members) | Standard Affiliation Rate | Reduced Affiliation Rate |
Less than 1,000 | 100% | 50% |
1,000 - 5,000 | 100% | 75% |
More than 5,000 | 100% | 90% |
Joining the ITF offers trade unions numerous benefits, including:
Improved workplace health and safety
Better pay and working conditions
A stronger voice in decisions affecting working conditions and rights
Access to welfare and social support services
Training and educational assistance
Medical and dental care for seafarers and their dependents
Through union affiliation with the ITF, transport workers can unite and fight for their rights globally. This ensures a fairer and more equitable future for all.
ITF's Organizational Structure and Governance
The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) is a democratic entity, led by its global union members. Its structure and governance facilitate a transparent, inclusive decision-making process. This process reflects the diversity of its membership. The leadership is elected by the unions, ensuring accountability and oversight.
The Congress: The Main Policy-Making Body
The ITF Congress, convened every four years, serves as the supreme decision-making forum. It allows all member unions to send voting delegates. These delegates discuss and decide on policies, strategies, and priorities for the next four years. The Congress also elects the ITF's leadership, including the President, Vice-Presidents, and General Secretary.
Elected Positions: President, Vice-Presidents, and General Secretary
The ITF's leadership comprises a President, five Vice-Presidents (four from diverse regions and one Women's Vice-President), and a General Secretary. These leaders are elected by the Congress, reflecting the interests and concerns of transport workers globally. The General Secretary oversees the ITF Secretariat and its staff, implementing Congress and Executive Board decisions.
"The ITF's leadership is elected by our member unions, ensuring that we remain accountable to the workers we represent. Our organizational structure is designed to promote democracy, transparency, and solidarity among transport workers worldwide." - Stephen Cotton, ITF General Secretary
The Executive Board: Overall Charge Between Congresses
The Executive Board, with 40 representatives from ITF member unions, oversees the organization's activities and decision-making between Congresses. It meets twice annually to review progress, discuss emerging issues, and adjust strategies and priorities. This ensures the ITF's responsiveness to the evolving needs of transport workers and the challenges they encounter in their industries.
ITF Governance Body | Role | Composition |
Congress | Supreme decision-making body, meets every four years | Voting delegates from all member unions |
Elected Leadership | President, Vice-Presidents, and General Secretary | Elected by member unions at the Congress |
Executive Board | Oversees ITF activities between Congresses, meets twice a year | 40 representatives from member unions |
The ITF's democratic structure and governance ensure transport workers' voices are heard and their interests represented at high levels. Its transparent and accountable leadership makes it a strong advocate for workers' rights and well-being in the maritime industry and beyond.
ITF's Specialized Sections for Seafarers and Dockers
The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) represents over 19.7 million transport workers from 670 trade unions across 140 countries. It has specialized sections for seafarer and dockworker unions. These sections work together to improve working conditions and protect workers' rights globally.
The ITF Seafarers' Section works with seafarer unions and organizations like the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO). Their goal is to set minimum standards for seafarers on Flag of Convenience (FOC) vessels, regardless of their nationality. Through collective agreements, the ITF has established wages and working conditions for thousands of FOC ships worldwide, safeguarding seafarers from exploitation.
"The ITF and its affiliated unions recover millions of dollars annually in backpay and compensation for seafarers facing mistreatment or injuries on the job."
The ITF Dockers' Section supports dockworker unions, promoting cooperation and solidarity. It coordinates efforts and shares information to improve working conditions, safety, and job security for dockworkers worldwide.
ITF Section | Focus Areas | Key Achievements |
Seafarers' Section |
|
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Dockers' Section |
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The ITF's specialized sections are crucial in championing the rights of seafarers and dockworkers worldwide. They foster international cooperation among unions. This unity is key in the fight for fair treatment and decent working conditions in the maritime industry.
Health and Wellbeing Initiatives by ITF
The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) acknowledges the unique challenges seafarers face. It recognizes the importance of their health and wellbeing. Through various initiatives and support programs, the ITF aims to address the physical and mental health concerns of maritime workers. This ensures their overall seafarer wellbeing.
A 2020 survey revealed that about 25% of seafarers suffered from depression, with around 20% either attempting or considering suicide. These figures underscore the pressing need for support programs tailored to seafarers' challenges, including isolation, lack of stimulation, and uncertainty in their personal and work lives.
The ITF works with stakeholders in the maritime industry to develop and implement strategies for improving worker health. These initiatives include:
Advocating for better working conditions and adherence to international standards set by the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC)
Promoting the implementation of fatigue management strategies and ensuring adequate rest periods for seafarers
Supporting the installation of effective communication systems on vessels, such as onboard Wi-Fi, to alleviate feelings of isolation and improve crew welfare
Raising awareness about the prevalence of occupational injuries and illnesses in the maritime industry and pushing for better prevention measures
"The ITF is committed to promoting the health and wellbeing of seafarers worldwide. We believe that by working together with our partners in the maritime industry, we can create a safer and more supportive environment for these essential workers." - ITF spokesperson
The ITF supports initiatives like the Neptune Declaration on Seafarer Wellbeing and Crew Change. This declaration has gained significant support from stakeholders across the maritime industry. By advocating for the consistent implementation of high-quality health protocols for crew changes, the ITF aims to mitigate the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on seafarers' wellbeing.
Initiative | Objective |
Fatigue Management | Ensure adequate rest periods and implement strategies to reduce fatigue among seafarers |
Onboard Communication | Install effective communication systems, such as Wi-Fi, to reduce isolation and improve crew welfare |
Occupational Health and Safety | Raise awareness about occupational injuries and illnesses and advocate for better prevention measures |
Mental Health Support | Provide resources and support programs to address mental health concerns among seafarers |
By prioritizing the health and wellbeing of seafarers, the ITF aims to create a more sustainable and resilient maritime industry. Through continued collaboration and the implementation of targeted support programs, the organization strives to ensure that the essential workers who keep global trade moving are protected and supported.
Conclusion
The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) has been a guiding light for maritime workers and seafarers for over a century. It has fought relentlessly for their rights and well-being, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs addressed. The ITF represents workers across various transport sectors and advocates for the shipping industry's regulation, thus promoting global trade sustainability.
With the advent of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), the ITF is adapting its strategies to support seafarers. It engages in discussions at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to address the skills needed for seafarers in remote locations. The ITF also champions a worker-led transition to new technologies, ensuring decent working conditions and transparency in technological changes.
The ITF's commitment was clear during the recent crew change crisis, where about 400,000 seafarers were stranded beyond their contracts. It issued an expert report calling for immediate action to end the crisis and protect seafarers' rights. The ITF's ongoing efforts in advocating for seafarers and promoting global trade sustainability make it a crucial force for a fair future for maritime workers.
FAQ
What is the role of the ITF in the maritime industry?
The ITF champions the rights of over 600,000 seafarers globally, affiliated with ITF unions. It ensures fair working conditions and protects their rights. The organization also promotes the regulation of the shipping industry to protect maritime workers' interests.
How long has the ITF been opposing the system of Flags of Convenience (FOCs)?
For over 50 years, the ITF has challenged the Flags of Convenience (FOCs) system. These flags allow shipowners to register ships in countries with which they have no real connection. This practice avoids taxes and regulations of their home countries.
When and where was the ITF founded?
Established in 1896 in London, the ITF was formed by European seafarers and dockworkers who sought international solidarity against strikebreakers. Today, it represents workers across various sectors, including shipping, ports, and aviation.
What are the ITF's key activities in supporting maritime workers?
The ITF unites unions to share information and strategize. It offers international support to transport unions facing conflicts with employers or governments. The ITF also campaigns for transport workers' rights and represents their interests in global organizations.
How can a trade union join the ITF?
Trade unions in the transport sector can apply to join the ITF. They must meet certain criteria and follow specific procedures to become affiliates. Affiliates with limited resources may qualify for reduced membership fees.
How is the ITF governed?
The ITF is governed by its member unions. The Congress, which convenes every four years, sets policy. Delegates from all affiliates vote at the Congress, electing the President and other officials. The Executive Board, comprising 40 representatives, oversees the ITF between Congresses.
What health and wellbeing initiatives does the ITF offer for maritime workers?
The ITF's Health and Wellbeing program aims to enhance the physical and mental health of transport workers. It focuses on the unique challenges faced by seafarers, promoting their overall wellbeing.
Source Links
Supporting Seafarers: resources and general information - https://www.imo.org/en/MediaCentre/HotTopics/Pages/Supporting-Seafarers.aspx
ITF to help seafarers leave ships, after inaction on crew changes - https://www.tradewindsnews.com/casualties/itf-to-help-seafarers-leave-ships-after-inaction-on-crew-changes/2-1-826474
What is the ITF? - https://www.itfseafarers.org/en/about-us/what-is-the-itf
ITF agreements - https://www.itfseafarers.org/en/your-rights/itf-agreements
ITF Reports “Worrying Increase” in Vessel and Crew Abandonment in 2023 - https://maritime-executive.com/article/itf-reports-worrying-increase-in-vessel-and-crew-abandonment-in-2023
Seafarer unpaid for seven years while Tanzanian Flag ducks its obligations - https://www.itfseafarers.org/en/news/seafarer-unpaid-seven-years-while-tanzanian-flag-ducks-its-obligations
Shipping's inconvenient truths - https://www.nautilusint.org/en/news-insight/telegraph/shippings-inconvenient-truths/
ITF rescues abandoned crew from two ships from the same owner - https://www.offshore-energy.biz/itf-rescues-abandoned-crew-from-two-ships-from-the-same-owner/
ITF: The Deadline for Crew Change is Over - https://maritime-executive.com/article/itf-enough-is-enough-saying-the-deadline-for-crew-changes-is-over
PDF - https://www.itfglobal.org/sites/default/files/node/resources/files/ITF-HRDD_Guidance.pdf
PDF - https://www.wmujapan.net/global-data/2021120213271671.pdf
Trade unions - https://www.itfseafarers.org/en/your-rights/trade-unions-0
ITF Urges Authorities to Continue Search for Bourbon Rhode Crew - https://www.offshore-energy.biz/itf-urges-authorities-to-continue-search-for-bourbon-rhode-crew/
ITF adds two more countries to FOC list, as seafarer abandonment hits new highs - https://www.nautilusint.org/en/news-insight/news/itf-adds-two-more-countries-to-foc-list-as-seafarer-abandonment-hits-new-highs/
ITF Calls Out "Worst Case of Seafarer Abandonment Ever Seen" - https://maritime-executive.com/article/itf-calls-out-worst-case-of-seafarer-abandonment-ever-seen
About ITF - https://mtwtu.org.ua/en/about-itf
International Transport Workers' Federation - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Transport_Workers'_Federation
Crew Welfare at Sea: Prioritizing Seafarer Well-Being in Marine Safety Protocols - https://www.zenitel.com/sites/default/files/2024-06/Crew Welfare at Sea (3).pdf
Shipping can be greener, safer and more efficient if technological change is worker-led - https://www.itfseafarers.org/en/news/shipping-can-be-greener-safer-and-more-efficient-if-technological-change-worker-led
Crew change crisis risks becoming forced labour epidemic as tragedy hits six-month mark on World Maritime Day - https://www.itfseafarers.org/en/news/crew-change-crisis-risks-becoming-forced-labour-epidemic-tragedy-hits-six-month-mark-world
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