The Marine Transport Workers' Trade Union of Ukraine (MTWTU) supports Ukrainian seafarers and future industry professionals by implementing important social initiatives even in the most difficult times.
One such initiative is a joint campaign to raise awareness of dental and gum hygiene for MTWTU cadets. It is conducted by the MTWTU in cooperation with the German trade union ver.di, the Welfare Fund of Maritime Transport “MORTRANS” and the UNION DENT clinic.
The German trade union ver.di is one of the largest in Europe, uniting around 2 million employees in more than 1,000 professions. Ver.di is known for its active stance in defending employees' rights, providing legal assistance and promoting professional development.
Thanks to the Memorandum of Cooperation between MTWTU and ver.di, all Ukrainian seafarers working on ships under ver.di collective bargaining agreements are members of the MTWTU and have access to all social guarantees and benefits of the Union.
The UNION DENT project was launched during the COVID-19 pandemic and is aimed at supporting the MTWTU members. In the face of a full-scale war, thanks to ver.di, it not only continued but also expanded its scope: seafarers' family members can join it, as well as cadets of maritime educational institutions - youth who are just preparing for their future profession.
Cadets participating in the programme can get professional consultation, preventive dental treatment and individual recommendations - all with the support of ver.di. The campaign is being implemented in Odesa, but cadets from Kherson and Izmail are also invited to participate.
Today, more than 300 seafarers and their families have already received a full range of dental services from UNION DENT. They highly appreciate the quality of treatment, the professionalism of the medical staff and the individual approach to everyone.
This initiative demonstrates how joint efforts can provide real support to those who are just starting their way in the maritime industry. The MTWTU continues to work on ensuring that every Union member has access to the necessary assistance and feels confident - both during their studies and in their future profession.
