During the meeting in Bucharest, Ukrainian seafarers had the opportunity to talk to ITF Inspector in Ukraine Nataliya Yefrimenko.
The most common problems faced by seafarers were discussed: non-payment of wages, lack of food, water or fuel on board, abuse of working hours, unsatisfactory working conditions, and even abandonment of crews.
This issue is of great importance. In 2024 alone, ITF inspectors helped seafarers recover more than USD 58 million in unpaid wages, of which more than USD 13 million went to crews of abandoned ships. There were over 300 cases of abandonment involving more than 3,000 seafarers. The 2025 numbers show that these incidents will continue to increase – currently, 200 abandoned vessels have been detected. Such situations most often occur on ships flying ‘flags of convenience,’ where oversight is weak.
During the meeting, particular attention was paid to the issue of claims for violations of working conditions. Nataliya Yefrimenko explained that every seafarer has the right to file a claim if their rights have been violated. This can be done directly on the ship, through the company, at the port or through a union. It is important that a claim for violation of working conditions should be considered quickly, fairly and confidentially, and that a seafarer cannot be persecuted for filing it.
“The main defender of a seafarer's rights is the seafarer himself. If you encounter a problem, you must report it. The Union, together with the ITF, will do everything possible to restore justice,” emphasised the Inspector.
The MTWTU urges seafarers not to face their problems alone and to apply for assistance if necessary, either to the Union or to ITF inspectors. Only joint efforts can overcome unfair actions and ensure decent working conditions for Ukrainian seafarers around the world.
