In a historic accord that will impact over 250,000 seafarers worldwide, seafarers’ unions and maritime employers have come together to sign a comprehensive four-year agreement, ushering in a new era of improved working conditions and substantial wage increases.
The International Bargaining Forum (IBF) has successfully negotiated the terms of the 2024-2027 IBF Framework Agreement, setting the stage for a game-changing transformation in the maritime industry.
One of the most noteworthy aspects of this agreement is the introduction of a 6 percent wage increase for seafarers over the next two years, with negotiations for the pay deal in 2026-27 slated for 2025.
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The IBF, which serves as the nexus between the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and the international maritime employers represented by the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG), has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering safe workplaces for seafarers, free from violence, discrimination, and harassment.
Moreover, the accord underscores the paramount importance of adopting secure working practices in cargo lashing to eradicate malpractice within the industry.
A dedicated working group is set to tackle pressing issues related to the integration of new technology, the utilization of alternative fuels, and addressing the global challenge of climate change.
Also, the working group will delve into concerns surrounding seafarers’ working hours, crewing levels, fatigue management, and the duration of employment contracts.
The agreement also recognizes the significance of national cabotage provisions and strives to extend free internet access to a greater number of seafarers, bridging the digital divide at sea.
Amidst the backdrop of this monumental agreement, both the unions and employers expressed their contentment and underscored the imperative need for a just transition and the development of skills within the maritime industry.
This accord heralds a brighter and more equitable future for seafarers and marks a significant milestone in their ongoing struggle for better working conditions and fair compensation.
“This has been a particularly complicated set of negotiations coming out of the Covid pandemic, which has taken a great deal of effort and compromise on both sides to get this right for the times,” said ITF spokesperson and ITF Seafarers’ Section Chair David Heindel. “This is a fair deal. We have agreed a working group that will look at the future needs of a changing industry with an eye on the needs of seafarers, with a focus on recruiting.”
Paddy Crumlin, the President of ITF, and Chair of the Dockers’ Section, emphasized that the compensation arrangement within the agreement serves as a testament to the significant role played by seafarers in the global economy. It also acknowledges the hardships they endured throughout the pandemic. He added, “Despite the hurdles faced during these negotiations, the bond between ITF and the JNG remains strong.”