34Years of protecting union members' rights45Local trade union organizations80 000MTWTU members trust us
Reasons to join
The Marine Transport Workers' Trade Union of Ukraine is one of the largest national industry unions, bringing together over 80,000 members
Protecting labour rights
Representation of interests in the workplace.
Conclusion of Collective Bargaining Agreement to improve working conditions.
Assistance in resolving conflicts with employers.
Legal support in cases of labour rights violations.
Social support
Humanitarian assistance to Union members and their families in difficult life situations.
Additional social guarantees.
Protection during crisis events, such as war or economic difficulties
Professional development
Participation in trainings, seminars, and professional development programs.
Access to the modern educational platform "Maritime Union Center".
Programs to support young professionals and gender equality in the industry.
Unity and solidarity
A community of like-minded people who support each other.
Participation in trade union events and activities.
Uniting the voices of union members to influence national and international policy.
International cooperation
Protecting seafarers' rights through international organisations such as the ITF and ETF.
The ability to resolve labour disputes at a global level.
Solidarity support from the international community.
Reviews
Thank you for everything! I was greeted warmly and that is a real joy for me to come to the Union office again and again.
I am happy to be the MTWTU member!
Daniil Velichko
3rd Officer, MTWTU member
Our Union is one of the few organizations which supports seafarers both onboard and on shore on the day-to-day basis. When at sea, we are sure that in case of any necessity the MTWTU is there to protect our rights. Our families also highly appreciate the MTWTU's attention: they are happy to attend Union-arranged events while we are at work.
Aleksei Kostromin
3rd Engineer, MTWTU member
I am amazed at the huge work which is being done by the MTWTU today not only for seafarers, but also for our families. Unfortunately, we are not in the habit of any organisations doing good things for people with no self-serving purposes. In my opinion, our Union is on the right track. Develop, grow and stay close, as it is extremely important for us!
Nikita Kaplenko
3 rd officer, MTWTU member
Only the MTWTU is ready to fight for out rights and for the decent wages for Ukrainian seafarers, as well as to organize all these exciting events for us and our families.
Gennadiy Pogorelov
Master, MTWTU member
For seafarers, the Union means support, protection and confidence. Unfortunately, none of us ші fully aware of our rights, so the Union is guarding our liberties every day. I know that I can address the Union with any question on employment adn work onboard, and I know that I will be heard, advised and assisted.
Dmitrii Shevchenko
3rd Officer, MTWTU member
The Union provides me with confidence that I will not remain face-to-face with a problem. The Union is a reliable friend who will be here for me for better or worse.
Oleg Ovchar
Cook, MTWTU member
Memorable gifts, informative seminars, entertainment – all of these the MTWTU organizes at decent level. Seafarers do need such meetings, because after returning from the voyage we almost cease communication with each other sinking in home routine. However, the Union gives seafarers an opportunity to come together, to communicate and spend time with families. It means a lot for us, believe me.
Roman Shchudlak
Chief Officer, MTWTU member
The Marine Transport Workers Trade Union of Ukraine always supports seafarers during the voyage, always protects and helps our families on shore. The Union is a safety belt for seafarer, when he is at sea.
Oleg Conradi
Chief Officer, MTWTU member
We express our grattitude to the MTWTU for the useful and relevant seminars for seafarers. Thank you for your constant support and fruitful cooperation! The MTWTU is the best trade union in Ukraine!
Victoriia Pishko
Director of Professional Maritime Lyceum of KSMA
I know that the powerful organization backs me, the organization indifferent to the fate of Ukrainian seafarers. My firm belief is that today, as never before, seafarers need the Union, since a large number of my colleagues are facing problems, and if there were not a single regulatory body protecting the rights of seafarers, most shipowners would behave very differently and not in favor of seafarers.
Roman Tsymbal
2nd Engineer, MTWTU member
Our Union is an organization invented to assist seafarers, to be their support and reliance. It is a third party in the relationships between the employer and the seafarer. If the seafarer has any problems with the company, there almost no one except the Union who may protect him, and that's why I think that it is vital to join the Union and be a part of the global trade union movement.
Maksym Usik
Chief Officer, MTWTU member
A lot of seafarers are afraid to appeal to the Union due to the rumour that they might have problems with employment in the future. That is not true. All information provided by the seafarer is confidental. I know from my own experience that sometimes there is no one to address, but the Union.
Ivan Yenakiev
AB, MTWTU member
I can confidently say that the MTWTU is recognized by both state and local authoroties. Nowadays, people need to be protected more than ever. Also, the Union plays an important role in concluding the Sectoral Agreement and collective bargaining agreements.
Roman Makarov
Dock Engineer, Kherson Sea Commercial Port, MTWTU member
The Union's protection may be compared to a modern car equipped with airbags and other high-technological systems. We do not see them while we drive, but they will save our life in case of an accident. Thus, the Union protects us and allows us to do our work well. I am glad that there are people who care.
Aleksandr Yushchuk
3rd Officer, MTWTU member
I applied to the Union several times for advice on various job-related issues. And every time my issues were resolved. This is a great privilege when you have where to address, where to come for help. Personally, I do appreciate it.
Оleksandr Rokotyansky
Captain, MTWTU member
I discovered the Union two years ago. My wife surfed the MTWTU Facebook page and read about the variety of important and useful things the Union does for Ukrainian seafarers. And so we decided that I need to be a part of the Union too. Since then, I have been attending educational and entertaining events, arranged by the MTWTU. And I enjoy how well they all are organized. I am a modern person, and I like everything what is new and well-performed. It is like a new device that makes your everyday routine better and easier. The Union is such an organization – it makes your life better and helps you. Thanks to the MTWTU, we can enhance our English, receive valuable knowledge at seminars, spend time with family and friends watching movies, meet colleagues and boost energy by interacting with new people. You are on the right path, good fortune in your work!
Vitaliy Grybinets
4-th ENG, MTWTU member
I feel the support and care of the MTWTU. My wife and I often attend trainings that help us cope with difficulties both at work and at home. Also, my child attends various entertainment events, spends holidays in health organizations, such as sanatoriums and camps. Therefore, I can say with confidence that I feel the support, care, help of a huge strong organization. And I call on all seafarers to become part of our great union family!
Oleksandr Marynov
2nd Engineer, MTWTU member
With my family we visit awareness-raising and entertainment events. We are very grateful to the Union for their hard work for the benefit of Ukrainian seafarers, for their attention and concern to everyone. That means a lot!
German Kirichenko
Chief Officer, MTWTU member
I come to the Union only for good reasons. I believe that the sky is the limit, so I attend almost all the Union-arranged informational and educational seminars, trainings and English language courses at the MTWTU Maritime Union Center. The Union has also provided a great opportunity to improve safety skills using a virtual reality simulator. Thanks to the Union we are steadily progressing, and that is indeed great!
Andrey Kulikov
2nd Officer, MTWTU member
I would not want to face situations when it is necessary to ask the Union for help. But judging by the work that the Union has been doing for my colleagues in distress, every seafarer can be sure that he and his family will not be left alone with their misfortune.
Valerii Rozvadovsky
2nd Officer , MTWTU member
I always try to take part in Union-arranged information activities. It is always relevant, useful and interesting. Communicating with colleagues, we pass on experience to each other; we can recommend something or protect with advice from an unpleasant situation.
Oleksandr Terekhov
Chief Engineer, MTWTU member
Fortunately, I have never had to apply to the Union for help in protecting my labor rights, but I actively participate in the Union’s social programs; I have attended free English courses; I and my wife happily take part in entertainment activities. We are grateful for the Union’s care of seafarers. It is very important to know that someone is backing you, someone big and serious.
Igor Gladkiy
3rd Engineer, MTWTU member
I believe that every seafarer should be a member of the MTWTU in order to stay aware of the latest trends in the maritime industry, receive competent advice and support, so as not to fall into the trap of unscrupulous employers. And the most important thing, not to be left alone in the event of a distress.
Yuriy Sarancha
2nd Officer, MTWTU member
Our Union brings together seafarers, represents them internationally and nationally, liaises with seafarers, helps and supports families while the seafarer is on a voyage.
Eugeniy Losikov
Captain, MTWTU meber
Тhe MTWTU is, first of all, the protection of our rights. I hope that soon all Ukrainian seafarers will become more united and will be able to demand decent working conditions and social benefits from shipowners.
Aleksey Bessonov
Captain, MTWTU member
With all the difficulties of our profession, in the eyes of our state, we are nobody. Our rights are not protected, our interests do not matter. The need to protect the rights is becoming critical, and our officials do not even think about it. The only organization ready to lend a helping hand and to support us, seafarers, is the Marine Transport Workers’ Trade Union of Ukraine. They really think about us. The MTWTU’s willingness to help the seafarer on the voyage and his family on the shore is invaluable!
Alexander Kovbasenko
AB, MTWTU member
I think everyone should join the Union as a professional community. For example, at MTWTU-organized information seminars, we get the opportunity to develop, refresh the knowledge and learn something new; we get acquainted with colleagues, exchange experience.
Yurii Yavorskyy
Captain, MTWTU member
I joined the MTWTU ranks back in the Academy. I always get valuable information at the Union-arranged seminars and training and I actively participate in entertainment events. While I am on the voyage, my family can always contact the Union for advice. In 2020, in the very midst of pandemic, I repeatedly addressed them for various issues on seafarers’ certification and the issuance of qualification documents.
I can enumerate much longer all those good deeds implemented by the MTWTU, and a simple ‘thank you’ will not be enough to express all our gratitude for their help, care and attention to the seafarers.
Myroslav Laptiev
3rd Officer, MTWTU member
Thanks to our Trade Union, every seafarer feels protected. And it means a lot to us today. I try to stay aware of the MTWTU’s work done for seafarers and their families: the performance is really impressive. The organization is never indifferent to the fate of Ukrainian seafarers. And it, in turn, needs our support.
Aleksey Rabomizo
Chief Officer, MTWTU member
Modern seafarers constantly deal with different shipping
stakeholders, who strive to defend their interests. And in these
realities, a seafarer must be able to protect his own interests and
rights. Let’s not forget that many Ukrainian seafarers still become
victims of dishonest crewing agencies and shipowners. I believe
that by becoming an MTWTU member, you exclude the chance of
getting left alone with your problem in crisis.
Yevhen Silvestrov
Chief Officer, MTWTU member
y. It is important for me to receive updates on national
legislation concerning seafarers and to know that the MTWTU guards
my rights and interests. I can see how the Trade Union helps our
seafarers from the pages of printed publications and social networks
of the organization.
In addition, I regularly attend MTWTU-organized trainings and
seminars, where I gain practical knowledge that cannot be found in books.
I have three children who are always looking forward to social
events from the MTWTU. My whole family takes part in active
Trade Union life.
Viktor Sydorenko
Electrical Engineer, MTWTU member
I have been a member of the Trade Union for a long time and
I can say for sure that the MTWTU helps us and our families with
deeds, but not words. Sometimes it happens when we need help, and
I know where to turn to for it. I know which doors are always open
for seafarers and whose hearts care for our lives.
At the same time, thanks to the Trade Union, I am always aware
of the latest maritime events, and I deeply appreciate it.
I would like to wish the entire Trade Union staff health,
prosperity, and good luck. All power to you to achieve goals!
Boris Borovikov
2rd Officer, MTWTU member
In my recent contracts I work mainly
with Ukrainian seafarers, and communicating with them I
cannot get why people do not become the MTWTU members.
Your team makes a huge contribution to the
seafarers’ lives. It is financial, legal and psychological
assistance. And what a number of educational events you
conduct! Not speaking about social projects and constant
updates on all important maritime events and news. Many
thanks to all your team!
Oleksandr Smotrytskyi
3rd Officer, MTWTU member
Having attended several Union-arranged seminars for Ukrainian seafarers that were aimed at protecting, supporting and helping us, both onboard and in daily situations, I realized how important the Union’s role is in every seafarer’s life. I am extremely grateful to all the MTWTU employees for the support that the Union has been providing to me over the past 6 years. I am sure that the MTWTU will successfully implement a huge number of useful activities aimed at supporting and promoting our seafarers!
Roman Lazarev
2rd Officer, MTWTU member
I believe that becoming an MTWTU member is important and essential because it is a tool for executing your rights, first of all. It is an opportunity to protect yourself in case of a crisis.
The Trade Union is, for sure, a huge prospect and an environment that contributes to my professional development. The MTWTU gave me a great opportunity to study English - absolutely free of charge. Also, the MTWTU provides assistance at the child's birth, reimbursement of expenses for treatment and recovery, and much more.
Artem Rylov
Electrical Engineer, MTWTU member
ПРМТУ – це впевненість у майбутньому!
За тисячі морських миль від українських кордонів я буду впевнений у гарантії правового та соціального захисту під час роботи в морі на суднах під іноземним прапором.
ПРМТУ – це актуальність новин у морській галузі, тренінги, професійна атмосфера та передовий досвід, особистий та професійний розвиток, цікаві люди, події, актуальні теми, обмін досвідом, юридичні консультації, вивчення морської англійської мови.
Георгій Попов
Курсант, ФКМТ НУ «Одеська морська академія», член ПРМТУ
Профспілка робітників морського транспорту України активно веде інформаційні кампанії з метою отримання додаткових знань і навичок членами Профспілки. Крім того, Профспілка захищає права працівників та надає юридичну підтримку, що сприяє підвищенню захисту інтересів моряків.
Кирило Фроленков
Курсант 3 курсу факультету «Судноводіння» ХДМА, член ПРМТУ
ПРМТУ — це однодумці, можливості та знання! Величезна спільнота моряків, портовиків, студентів та курсантів — як одна родина, що захистить, підтримає, підкаже, надихне та допоможе. Під мирним небом чи під час війни, на суші та на морі, в портах та на суднах, за партами та за станками — всі ми формуємо власне майбутнє, і ПРМТУ — це дуже потужний інструмент, який нам допомагає на цьому шляху.
Валентина Іващук
Фахівець із звʼязків з громадськістю та пресою ДП «Ізмаїльський МТП», член ПРМТУ
Для мене ПРМТУ — гарант надійного захисту прав моряків та портовиків! Профспілка здійснює свою діяльність не лише на всеукраїнському, а й на міжнародному рівні. Представництво і захист трудових прав має вагоме значення для всіх нас. ПРМТУ використовує сучасні підходи до розвитку молоді та надає можливості для власної реалізації.
Валерій Недялков
Курсант 4 курсу «Управління судновими технічними системами і комплексами» ДІ НУ «Одеська морська академія», член ПРМТУ
ПРМТУ за змістовні, корисні та цікаві семінари для молоді, за розвиток та прояв себе як особистості. Профспілка — допомога, захист і впевненість. Тому я є частиною великого і активного профспілкового руху.
Дарʼя Буренко
Провідний фахівець сектору закупівель ДП «Миколаївський морський торговельний порт», член ПРМТУ
Надзвичайно яскраву роль у моєму житті відіграє ПРМТУ! Чому? Велика кількість івентів, форумів, освітніх і розважальних проєктів поєднуються зі щирими та мотивованими людьми, роблячи навчання та роботу ще цікавішими. Тут ви отримаєте вагомий досвід та цікаві знання, нових класних друзів та яскраві спогади.
Ірина Халевицька
Курсантка 1 курсу Навчально-наукового інституту морського права та менеджменту НУ «Одеська морська академія», член ПРМТУ
ПРМТУ виступає за поліпшення умов праці, підвищення заробітної плати та соціального захисту працівників. Організовує різні заходи: тренінги, семінари, конференції, щоб допомогти поліпшити свої навички та знання. Надає різні види підтримки, включаючи юридичну, соціальну, психологічну допомогу. Ми — родина!
Валентина Крутієнко
Провідний фахівець відділу контролю та управління активами ДП «Миколаївський морський торговельний порт», член ПРМТУ
Вже багато років я є членом ПРМТУ та захоплююсь тим обсягом роботи, яку вони виконують. Завжди слідкую за успіхами в налагоджені міжнародних відносин та відстоюванні прав моряків.
Також приємно знати, що є люди, які піклуються про родини моряків та допомагають вирішувати найрізноманітніші проблеми.
Дуже вдячний за вашу працю!
Олександр Маєвський
Третій помічник капітана, член ПРМТУ
Для мене Профспілка – це не лише захист прав її членів. А це й ще доступ до різноманітних можливостей для професійного зростання, платформа для ініціатив та ідей. Ставши членом Профспілки, ми можемо взяти участь у профспілковій діяльності, зробити свій внесок у розвиток, пропонувати свої ідеї та спільно їх реалізовувати.
Діана Кожуріна
Курсантка 4 курсу Менеджменту в галузі морського та річкового транспорту, лаборант ДІ НУ «ОМА», член ПРМТУ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, MTWTU is the official representative of the ITF in Ukraine. This enables us to use effective tools to protect seafarers’ rights and to coordinate actions at the international level.
Contact MTWTU or an ITF Inspector as soon as possible. We will provide guidance on further steps and procedures, your rights and the company’s obligations under the contract, collective bargaining agreement, and international standards.
A seafarer has the right to demand full compliance with the terms of their employment agreement. In case of violations, the seafarer should immediately inform the Trade Union or an ITF Inspector.
Insufficient, poor-quality, or unvaried nutrition is a violation. The seafarer should record this fact and report it to the employer. If the problem is not resolved, we recommend seeking assistance from MTWTU or an ITF Inspector.
Your employment contract is a legal document; however, you have the right to terminate cooperation with the employer both before joining the vessel and during your service on board, provided that you follow the established procedures. Contact MTWTU — we will advise you and help you properly arrange the termination of the contract.