International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF)

A global organisation bringing together around 740 trade unions from 150 countries worldwide, representing 16.5 million transport workers.

Founded in 1896, the ITF unites trade unions of seafarers, dockers, railway workers, freight and passenger road transport workers, inland waterways workers, fishers, tourism service workers, and civil aviation workers.

The ITF headquarters is located in London, with regional offices in Nairobi, Ouagadougou, Tokyo, New Delhi, Singapore, Rio de Janeiro, Amman, and Brussels.

The ITF represents transport workers at the global level and fights for the protection of their interests through the organisation of global campaigns and solidarity actions. The ITF is committed to advancing an independent and democratic trade union movement, as well as defending fundamental human and trade union rights. It opposes all forms of totalitarianism, aggression, and discrimination.

Since 1993, the Marine Transport Workers’ Trade Union of Ukraine has been the only maritime affiliate of the ITF in Ukraine.

In 2024, at the 46th ITF Congress, during the meeting of the European Regional Electoral Group, Oleg Grygoriuk, Chairman of the MTWTU, was elected a member of the ITF Executive Committee. The MTWTU is officially represented in all elected bodies and sections of the Federation representing the interests of maritime transport workers.

https://www.itfseafarers.org/

ITF Seafarers' Trust

A British charitable organization established in 1981, which funds programmes aimed at improving the welfare of maritime transport workers, seafarers, and their families. The ITF Seafarers’ Trust is financed through its own funds and investment income held within the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF).

The objectives of the organization include:

• building the capacity of trade unions to deliver services to their members;
• providing resources to charitable organizations for welfare services in ports and on board vessels;
• supporting seafarers and their families in emergency situations;
• implementing other initiatives aimed at enhancing the recognition of seafarers as key workers in the global economy.

https://www.seafarerstrust.org/

European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF)

A pan-European trade union organisation bringing together transport trade unions from the European Union, the European Economic Area, and the countries of Central and Eastern Europe.

Founded in 1999, it represents more than 5 million transport workers from over 200 transport trade unions across 38 European countries. These workers are employed across all sectors of the transport industry: civil aviation, fisheries, inland waterways, logistics, maritime transport and ports, railways, road transport, tourism, and urban public transport.

The European Transport Workers’ Federation also has dedicated structures representing the interests of women and young transport workers.

The Marine Transport Workers’ Trade Union of Ukraine has been an ETF member since almost its establishment and continues to actively participate in the Federation's work today.

https://www.etf-europe.org/

International Maritime Employers’ Council (IMEC)

The only international employers’ organization dedicated to labour relations in the maritime industry. Its regional offices are located in the United Kingdom and the Philippines.

IMEC represents more than 250 shipping companies worldwide. Collectively, these companies operate over 12,000 vessels registered in more than 60 countries and employ over 300,000 seafarers of more than 70 different nationalities.

IMEC coordinates the positions of its members and represents them in negotiations on seafarers’ wages and terms and conditions of employment.

Since 2012, the Marine Transport Workers’ Trade Union of Ukraine has been granted exclusive authority to conclude International Bargaining Forum (IBF) standard collective agreements for Ukrainian seafarers with shipowners who are members of the International Maritime Employers’ Council.

Collective agreements of such high standards ensure decent working conditions as well as more attractive wage levels. In addition, by working under collective agreements concluded by the Marine Transport Workers’ Trade Union of Ukraine, Ukrainian seafarers gain access to a wide range of social programmes and benefits.

https://www.imec.org.uk/

International Maritime Organization (IMO)

A specialised agency of the United Nations that sets standards for the safety, security, and environmental performance of international shipping. Its primary role is to develop a fair and effective regulatory framework for the shipping industry that is universally adopted and implemented worldwide.

The safety of human life at sea has been a core priority of the IMO since it began its work in 1959. The IMO comprises 176 Member States and three Associate Members.

In 2020, the International Maritime Organization announced the appointment of Oleg Grygoriuk as an IMO Goodwill Ambassador in Ukraine.

An IMO Maritime Goodwill Ambassador is responsible for promoting the accelerated growth of the maritime industry based on innovation, sustainability, and cooperation as a vital component of the global economy. Maritime Ambassadors also encourage people, especially young people, to engage in maritime careers.

In 2024, the IMO extended the mandate of the IMO Maritime Goodwill Ambassador, Chairman of the Marine Transport Workers’ Trade Union of Ukraine, Oleg Grygoriuk, for the third time.

https://www.imo.org/

International Labour Organization (ILO)

Committed to promoting social justice and internationally recognised human and labour rights by fulfilling its founding mission, according to which social justice is an essential condition for universal and lasting peace.

The only tripartite agency of the United Nations, the ILO has, since 1919, brought together governments, employers, and workers from 187 Member States to set labour standards and to develop policies and programmes that promote decent work for all women and men.

The Marine Transport Workers’ Trade Union of Ukraine and the International Labour Organization have been cooperating for a considerable time across various areas. This includes work on the ratification of conventions, in particular the key instrument for seafarers — the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 — as well as the implementation of a number of joint projects.

https://www.ilo.org/

International Federation of Shipmasters' Associations (IFSMA)

Founded in 1974, it brings together shipmasters to ensure international standards of professional competence, navigational safety, protection of human life, and the marine environment.

The organisation’s headquarters is located in London, close to the International Maritime Organization (IMO). In 1975, IFSMA was granted consultative status with the IMO, enabling it to represent the interests of shipmasters at the international level.

IFSMA actively participates in the work of key IMO committees, including the Maritime Safety Committee, the Marine Environment Protection Committee, the Legal Committee, and the Facilitation Committee. The organisation also contributes to the development of international maritime standards, in particular the STCW Convention, and supports initiatives aimed at improving shipping safety and seafarers’ working conditions.

IFSMA advocates for stronger oversight of shipping companies’ compliance with international safety standards, the elimination of the exploitation of substandard vessels, and enhanced port state control. The Federation also takes part in the development and delivery of educational programmes for the training of future shipmasters.

In 2019, the Marine Transport Workers’ Trade Union of Ukraine became a member of IFSMA. Reflecting the growing international standing of Ukrainian shipmasters and opening new opportunities for the development and protection of the maritime profession in Ukraine, Oleg Grygoriuk was elected Vice President of IFSMA in the same year. In recognition of his active work on behalf of Ukrainian shipmasters, he was re-elected to a second term in this position at the IFSMA General Assembly in 2023.

https://www.ifsma.org/

Maritime Anti-Corruption Network (MACN)

A global business network operating to create a maritime industry free from corruption, promoting fair trade for the benefit of society. Founded in 2011 by a group of leading shipping companies, MACN now unites over 220 members worldwide and stands as one of the most successful examples of collective action in the fight against corruption.

MACN and its members work to eliminate all forms of corruption in the maritime sector by raising awareness of corruption-related challenges; implementing MACN principles and co-developing best practices; collaborating with governments, non-governmental organisations, and civil society to mitigate corruption risks; and fostering a culture of integrity within the maritime community.

In 2020, MACN representatives visited the MTWTU office for the first time, laying the foundation for constructive dialogue and cooperation. Since then, the partnership between the organisations has continued.

https://macn.dk/

Federation of Trade Unions of Ukraine

The largest trade union association in the country, representing the interests of 3 million workers. Founded in 1990, the Federation coordinates the activities of 46 all-Ukrainian unions and 25 trade union associations, defending the labour and socio-economic rights of its members.

The organization is active at the national and international levels, protecting workers' rights in relations with the government and employers, promoting social dialogue, and implementing programs to support workers.

https://www.fpsu.org.ua/

Federation of Trade Unions of Transport Workers of Ukraine

Established in 2003 on the initiative of the largest trade unions in the transport sector with the aim of improving cooperation with social partners in the process of regulating industrial, labor, and socio-economic relations.

The leaders of the Federation member organizations represent the interests of their union members in the National Tripartite Social and Economic Council, the Joint Representative Body of Representative All-Ukrainian Trade Union Associations at the national level and their working bodies, as well as in state social insurance bodies.

Oleg Grygoriuk, Chairman of the Marine Transport Workers’ Trade Union of Ukraine, was elected Deputy Chairman of the Federation in 2022.

Shipping Register of Ukraine

An inspection body accredited in accordance with the provisions of international standard ISO/IEC 17020, with a quality management system that complies with and is certified for compliance with the applicable requirements of international standard ISO 9001, as confirmed by the relevant certificates. Participates in the implementation of national and international rules and standards in accordance with the powers of the Flag Administration.

The Shipping Register establishes technical requirements, develops Rules that ensure the conditions for safe navigation of ships and the level of safety in accordance with their purpose, the protection of human life of ship crews and passengers, and the preservation of cargoes carried at sea and on inland waterways, the prevention of pollution from ships, performs inspections in accordance with these requirements, classifies ships, establishes the gross and net tonnage of seagoing ships and mixed-use ships, and the measurement characteristics of inland waterway vessels and small ships classified by the Register.

The Marine Transport Workers' Trade Union of Ukraine and the Register of Shipping are establishing dialogue and working to form partnerships aimed at resolving key issues for the maritime community and ensuring the stable development of the industry.

https://shipregister.ua/

National Mediation and Conciliation Service (NMCS)

State body acting as an independent regulator in ensuring equal and impartial treatment of participants in social and labour relations. Since one of the Union's main tasks is to protect the labour and socio-economic rights and interests of its members, representatives of the Marine Transport Workers' Trade Union of Ukraine are constantly involved in the working groups of the NMCS, whose activities are aimed at developing draft laws to improve the procedure for resolving collective labour disputes.

https://nmcs.gov.ua/

State Service for Maritime, Inland Waterway Transport and Shipping of Ukraine (Shipping Administration)

It is the central executive body whose main tasks are to implement state policy in the areas of maritime and inland water transport and shipping. The Administration also ensures the fulfillment of Ukraine's international obligations in these areas, regulates merchant shipping and navigation on inland waterways, exercises state supervision, and provides administrative services within its powers. In addition, the Administration is responsible for navigational and hydrographic support for navigation in the territorial sea, internal sea waters, and internal waterways of Ukraine.

In 2024, the Marine Transport Workers' Trade Union of Ukraine, with the support of the ITF and the Shipping Administration, held the Ukrainian Maritime Forum in London. It became a platform for discussing the future of the Ukrainian maritime industry and strengthening international cooperation.

As part of the Marine Transport Workers' Trade Union of Ukraine (MTWTU) and the State Service for Maritime, Inland Waterway Transport and Shipping of Ukraine took an important step towards improving conditions for the protection of seafarers' rights by signing a Memorandum of Cooperation.

https://marad.gov.ua/ua

International Longshore and Warehouse Union

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU Canada) has successfully represented workers' interests in British Columbia since 1948. ILWU Canada serves as the exclusive bargaining agent for over 7,200 men and women across the province.

It is a union composed of 12 autonomous local branches of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and three affiliate unions: the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (British Columbia), the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (Saskatchewan), and the Grain and General Services Union (Saskatchewan).

ILWU Canada encourages members to participate in union affairs and represents the interests of rank-and-file workers on numerous forums at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels.

The Longshore Division of ILWU Canada is responsible for loading, unloading, and inspecting cargo arriving at and departing from ships, as well as storing goods on docks and in warehouses.

https://www.ilwu.ca/

The Mission to Seafarers

The Mission to Seafarers exists to support men and women working at sea when they need it most.

To address the lack of available facilities, all seafarer centres of The Mission to Seafarers, located in 50 countries, aim to provide seafarers with access to Wi-Fi and SIM cards, comfortable spaces for rest, food and personal hygiene items, and transport to shops and local services.

The Mission to Seafarers offers more than just practical support. Seafarers also require emotional and often spiritual care. That is why the organisation maintains a large network of port chaplains who visit ships, listen to seafarers, and, if needed, offer prayers. They can also connect seafarers with other organisations or advocate on their behalf.

https://www.missiontoseafarers.org/

The Seafarers’ Charity

The Seafarers’ Charity aims “to create a world where seafarers and their families are valued and free of need and disadvantage”. The organisation has been improving the lives of seafarers since 1917, when it was established as the King George’s Fund for Sailors (KGFS).

Grants to maritime charities truly transform the lives of many people who work or have worked at sea, as well as their families.

In 2024, The Seafarers’ Charity awarded 64 grants totalling £2.6 million to 48 organisations.

https://www.theseafarerscharity.org/

All-Japan Seamen’s Union (JSU)

All-Japan Seamen’s Union (JSU) aims to improve the working conditions and social status of its members. In addition, JSU is committed to protecting seafarers’ rights and playing a socially significant role in helping each member reach their full potential by enhancing their technical competence and fostering a sense of safety and environmental responsibility.

JSU negotiates with Japanese shipowners on IBF agreements adopted by the ITF, covering all union members who are non-residents, after which the ITF issues green certificates for the vessels covered by the agreement.

JSU ensures the proper implementation of all concluded agreements.

JSU also plays an important role in addressing complaints from its non-resident members working on Japanese ships.

In 2014, the Marine Transport Workers’ Trade Union of Ukraine and All-Japan Seamen’s Union signed a Memorandum of Understanding, under which all Ukrainian seafarers working on vessels under Japanese union agreements are recognised as members of the MTWTU.

https://www.jsu.or.jp/eng/

Danish Shipping

Danish Shipping is a trade and business organisation representing the interests of the Danish shipping industry — Denmark’s largest export sector — and has nearly 90 members, including shipping and offshore companies. Half of the organisation’s members operate under the Danish flag, while the other half, consisting of associate members, operate from Denmark without vessels under the Danish flag. Danish Shipping serves as the voice of shipping companies and is dedicated to promoting the interests of Danish Shipping both domestically and internationally.

Danish shipowners represent Danish Shipping — Denmark’s largest export industry — and seek to influence policymakers, authorities, and organisations at all levels to create the best possible conditions for their members.

https://danishshipping.dk/en/

Norwegian Shipowners’ Association (NSA)

The Norwegian Shipowners’ Association (NSA) was founded in 1909. Its mission is to protect the interests of its members in industrial and labour matters and to play an active role in addressing the everyday challenges of the shipping industry.

For over 150 years, Norway has been a global leader in shipping. Today, Norway possesses one of the largest and most modern fleets in the world, as well as one of the most advanced and specialised. NSA has 160 member organisations, with approximately 1,900 Norwegian ships and drilling units operating worldwide. Their activities span a wide range, from transporting automobiles, refrigerated goods, and chemicals between Asia and America to short-sea shipping in Europe and Norway, as well as advanced offshore operations in the Arctic.

https://www.rederi.no/en/

German trade union ver.di

Vereinte Dienstleistungsgewerkschaft (ver.di) is one of Germany's largest trade unions, representing workers in over 1,000 professions. Founded in 2001, it now has around 2 million members.

Under the Memorandum signed between the MTWTU and Germany's largest trade union, ver.di, all Ukrainian seafarers working on ships covered by this union's agreements are considered MTWTU members and are entitled to all the social benefits available to MTWTU members.

Thanks to the ongoing support of ver.di, both in peacetime and during the war, the MTWTU has been capable of implementing numerous projects for the benefit of Ukrainian seafarers, dockers, and cadets: free access to high-quality dental services at the UNION DENT Clinic; a joint campaign to raise awareness among cadets who are MTWTU members about dental and gum hygiene; the opportunity for cadets from the Kherson State Maritime Academy to study simultaneously at Vilnius Tech LMA in Klaipėda with funding from ver.di; support for Ukrainian seafarers' and dockers' families in Germany at the start of the war; and more.

https://www.verdi.de/verdi-sind-wir

Odesa Regional Employment Centre

The centre provides access to current vacancies, supports employers and job seekers through recruitment services, and organises professional training and retraining programmes.

A separate area of focus is support for entrepreneurial initiatives: consultations and grant programmes for starting or developing your own business. The centre's specialists also provide legal and informational assistance on all issues related to formal employment in Ukraine.

On 18 December 2025, a Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between the MTWTU and the Odesa Regional Employment Centre.

https://ode.dcz.gov.ua/

Local Employment Partnership in Odesa Region

This is a cross-sector initiative that shapes an inclusive, flexible and sustainable labour market in Odesa region. Its main goal is to create real opportunities for employment, self-employment and professional development for vulnerable groups through cooperation between the state, business, education and the public. Its mission is to promote the creation of an inclusive labour market, strengthen the region's economic capacity and develop an effective partnership model.

The Local Employment Partnership Initiative in Odesa Region is being implemented as part of the International Labour Organisation's project ‘Support to Job Creation in Mykolaiv and Odesa and to Social Dialogue Development,’ funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark.

As part of its support programmes, the Local Employment Partnership offers to overcome staff shortages in key sectors of the economy, promote self-employment among the population, ensure equal conditions and opportunities for the employment of vulnerable groups, and create an effective Local Employment Partnership model in the Odesa region.

On 17 April 2025, as part of the Local Employment Partnership initiative, a multilateral memorandum was signed. Among the partners is the Marine Transport Workers' Trade Union of Ukraine.

https://www.lep.od.ua/