Opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee – Towards an EU maritime strategy: Navigating into the future through coordinated investment policies, legislative initiatives, social dialogue and involving civil society (own-initiative opinion)
Date: 2025-01-22
Institutions: European Economic and Social Committee
Subjects: EU strategy, competitiveness, conservation of resources, investment, law of the sea, maritime economy, maritime safety, maritime transport, social dialogue (EU), sustainable fisheries








C_202501186EN.000101.fmx.xml












Official Journal of the European Union


EN
C series













C/2025/1186


21.3.2025






Opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee
Towards an EU maritime strategy: Navigating into the future through coordinated investment policies, legislative initiatives, social dialogue and involving civil society
(own-initiative opinion)
(C/2025/1186)


Rapporteur: 
Ágnes CSER

Co-rapporteur: 
Tanja BUZEK






Advisors


Dimitris BIMPAS (for the rapporteur)
Nikolaos KOLETSIS (for the co-rapporteur)




Plenary Assembly decision


18.1.2024




Legal basis


Rule 52(2) of the Rules of Procedure




Section responsible


Section for Transport, Energy, Infrastructure and the Information Society




Adopted in section


11.12.2024




Adopted at plenary session


22.1.2025




Plenary session No


593




Outcome of vote
(for/against/abstentions)


153/86/11




1.   Conclusions and recommendations









1.1.


Based on the EU’s founding values of human rights, freedom and democracy, the EU and its Member States need to secure strategic interests across the maritime domain. Coordinated steps contribute to the long-term sustainability of maritime areas and increase the global competitiveness of the EU and its shipping sector. This can be achieved through broader investment policies and legislative initiatives to support the industry and its workers and requires the involvement of social partners and civil society organisations.












1.2.


The EESC calls for a new EU maritime strategy reflecting the importance of the sector for the EU economy and the well-being of its citizens. A holistic approach will ensure the sustainable development of the maritime space, foster maritime security and defence capacities, strengthen the blue economy, and promote the active involvement of the social partners and civil society as well as regional and global cooperation. Its recommendations aim to create a European maritime space for more competitive and economically, environmentally and socially sustainable EU shipping with clear and transparent rules (1).












1.3.


Maritime security: The security of the EU’s Member States, citizens and partners, as well as free access to peaceful shipping routes, are at the heart of the EU’s strategy and public policy investment. With long-standing illicit activities as well as new and evolving threats and increasing geopolitical competition, the EU’s defence, international relations and trade policies require an immediate action plan.












1.4.


Marine protection: The sustainable use of the oceans and of marine resources in the EU and worldwide goes along with ensuring sustainable fisheries and fostering a sustainable blue economy. Given the survival importance of conservation of marine biological resources and healthy seas, the EESC suggests developing a ‘Seafarm to Fork’ strategy following its ‘Farm to Fork’ practice.












1.5.


Competitiveness: An effective maritime policy also needs to be combined with a competitive environment, unlocking the potential of the sector. However, this aim needs to be balanced with protection for companies and workers from unfair competition and social dumping.












1.6.


Level playing field: The EESC advocates a true level playing field where substandard vessels must not be allowed to operate in European waters, competing with vessels registered under high performing and leading registries. The EESC stresses the need to create an enabling environment for the reflagging of EU controlled tonnage back to EU national flags. The EESC calls for the proper implementation and enforcement of Article 91 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and more clarity on the related obligations to what a genuine link between the ship and the country of registration entails, to hold shipowners and flag states to account.












1.7.


Investment: To preserve the competitiveness of EU shipping and facilitate its transition to net-zero emissions, significant investments will be required; the EESC calls for sufficient long-term funding to be provided for R&D for new technologies.












1.8.


Just transition: The EESC emphasises that environmental sustainability must be matched by social sustainability and quality social dialogue at regional, national and EU level. It commends the Maritime Just Transition Task Force leading the industry’s way through collaboration.












1.9.


Training: Quality jobs and training of the workforce contribute to the industry’s prosperity, competitiveness and efficiency. Beyond reskilling and upskilling, retaining and recruiting seafarers will be essential for the present and future of the sector and social dialogue a key element.












1.10.


New social contract: This includes the efficient enforcement of existing legislation in the sector and the political will to undertake legally binding legislative initiatives offering seafarers the same level of social protection as people working ashore. The EESC calls on the Commission to prioritise action on gaps in seafarers’ social protection and pension schemes, fatigue at sea and access to shore leave. Both the shipping industry and the EU and its Member States must be ambitious to make the profession more attractive and improve the welfare of seafarers.












1.11.


Maritime safety: The EESC sees a crucial role for the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) in contributing significantly to better enforcement of the Maritime Labour Conventions (MLC) and engaging in recommendations on social aspects within the maritime transport sector. EMSA statistics can help provide reliable data by including ratings in their database.












1.12.


Involving social partners and civil society: The unique setting of the European social dialogue coupled with the Commission as legislator is an opportunity for the EU to set examples and push for international standards to be improved. Employers, unions and governments must cooperate to define a new social contract for seafarers and to secure recruitment and retention for the future of the maritime sector.












1.13.


Collaboration: Only a cross-cutting, comprehensive strategy can align objectives. The EESC proposes establishing a permanent coordinating College of Commissioners to schedule and monitor tasks, ensuring horizontal cooperation, including the employment dimension.




2.   New Commission term of office









2.1.


The 2023 EU Maritime Safety Package was a missed opportunity to develop a broad vision for the future of the sector as a strategic asset of the EU. Revamped EU policies need to support the industry and its workers and consider the importance of the maritime sector.












2.2.


The EESC welcomes the fact that Commission President-elect Ursula van der Leyen has placed EU security, the social market economy and better global cooperation with partners at the heart of her political guidelines. The reports by Mario Draghi and Enrico Letta on EU competitiveness stress the importance of new investment that will increase the EU’s security level and resilience and ensure quality jobs for strategic sectors of the EU economy.












2.3.


Maritime, fishing and water affairs concern a wide range of policy agenda initiatives, which reflect the broader ambitions of the European Commission for its next term of office (2) (water resources management, fisheries, green investments in maritime transportation, international cooperation on shipping control etc.). However, the EESC is concerned by the absence of a dedicated commissioner in charge of a portfolio for quality jobs and social rights.












2.4.


Only a cross-cutting, comprehensive EU maritime strategy can align objectives by establishing a permanent coordinating College of Commissioners to schedule and monitor tasks, ensuring horizontal cooperation, including the employment dimension.












2.5.


In addition to social partnership and dialogue, organised civil society must continue to be involved in achieving these goals. The EESC assumes the role of partner with the EU institutions.




3.   Background









3.1.


The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the strategic importance of maritime transport and its workers, as 75 % of the EU’s external trade takes place by sea, making it essential to ensuring the continued supply and trade of food and medical supplies.












3.2.


The EU economy is highly dependent on safe seas and oceans. More than 80 % of global trade takes place by sea, and around two thirds of the world’s oil and gas reserves are extracted offshore or transported by sea. Nearly 99 % of global data flows take place via submarine cables. The EU-controlled shipping fleet is one of the largest fleets in the world, creating 2 million jobs and employing 685 000 people, contributing EUR 54 billion each year to the EU GDP.












3.3.


The UN Conference on Trade and Development’s (UNCTAD) flagship 2024 Review of Maritime Transport states that 35 % of the world’s fleet is controlled by companies from Europe, but only 10,9 % of the world’s fleet sails under an EU Member State flag. Furthermore, almost 40 % of masters and officers on board EU-flagged vessels come from non-EU countries, mainly Asian countries.












3.4.


Maritime security is a key priority for EU Member States, especially those which are continuously experiencing sea border violations, illegal fishing, trafficking, migrant smuggling, maritime pollution or degradation or other maritime risks. The catastrophic attacks on the Nord Stream in 2022 and the hybrid attacks targeting maritime infrastructure require the EU to effectively protect, develop and invest in its critical infrastructure and enhance its strategic autonomy in the sector.












3.5.


In addition to the Russian war against the Ukraine, threats to maritime security are emerging worldwide, jeopardising the security of the global economy, data flows and trade, as well as those involved in the maritime sector.












3.6.


The EESC notices and expresses its most rising concerns about the operation of shadow fleets in European waters and surrounding seas. It calls the Commission to take appropriate and immediate actions to prevent and limit such activities and support those Member States that have to deal with the problems and risks arising from the use of grey and black fleets. These shadow fleets pose an acute threat to the marine environment and may well constitute a tool for circumventing international sanctions and could be an active part of hybrid warfare such as threats to energy supplies, telecommunications and data communications, and thus pose an immediate security risk to the EU and its Member States. The EESC calls for enhanced tracking and transparency requirements, holding flag States accountable for the vessels they register.












3.7.


It is in the EU’s interest to ensure the safety and security of seafarers in line with the requirements of the ILO MLC, 2006 and the relevant conventions of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and International Maritime Organization (IMO). Ensuring their ratification and application by developing countries must be a fundamental objective.












3.8.


In this context, the EESC also highlights the policy recommendations set out in a number of opinions linked to the maritime space, for instance those on the Global Gateway, international ocean governance and the Arctic.












3.9.


Climate change, environmental degradation in coastal and marine areas and marine protection are still major challenges for European economic policy and require coordinated joint action, paying particular attention to sustainable food security.












3.10.


Appropriate regulation is required to regulate use of the seabed, map and eliminate illegal seabed mining, and implement the regulated use and oversight of the seabed. The EESC also calls for the conservation of marine biological resources, for healthy seas, the implementation of a ‘Seafarm to Fork’ strategy and the sustainable use of the oceans and of marine resources in the EU and worldwide, ensuring sustainable fisheries and fostering a sustainable blue economy.




4.   Security, safety and sustainability challenges









4.1.


In the light of new maritime security threats, the EU’s strategic objective should be to implement policies at national, EU and regional level to enhance the bloc’s security, step up its efforts to preserve peace and stability, ensure the security of maritime trade and protect critical maritime infrastructure.












4.2.


Protecting our oceans, marine environment and seabed is a prerequisite for an effective maritime policy, and a secure global maritime environment is needed to unlock the potential of a sustainable blue economy.












4.3.


Maritime safety and security can and should only be achieved through coordinated investment policies that meet those objectives. Below are some key areas in this field.






—


Sustainable development should be promoted, with the EU playing a key role in climate neutrality, the green transition and related investment policy.










—


Maritime safety, security and competitiveness require appropriate partnerships, not only with international organisations, but also with coastlines, ports, authorities, European and non-European citizens and their organisations.










—


Continuous education and training are essential for economic operators, seafarers, port staff, public authorities and members of the public.








5.   Quality jobs and seafarers’ rights









5.1.


The sustainability of the EU shipping industry is dependent on the EU continuing to produce high-quality seafarers. To stay competitive on the European labour market, the EESC believes that the shipping sector needs to offer quality jobs and make ships a safe workplace that has zero tolerance for bullying and harassment and where seafarers enjoy fair pay and working conditions and the rights and protections they deserve. The EESC sees a real risk that the attractiveness of the seafaring profession for the younger European generations will remain unsatisfactory if the image of the industry and the working standards on board are not gradually improved.












5.2.


The EESC calls for a change in seafarers’ realities and for broader cooperation between governments and social partners on long-standing systemic issues to ensure more social sustainability, inclusion, diversity and equitability. This includes the efficient enforcement of existing legislation in the sector and the political will to undertake legally binding legislative initiatives to e.g. address gaps in seafarers’ social protection and pension schemes, fatigue at sea, access to shore leave and the need to prioritise data on seafaring.












5.3.


EU shipping is, in its largest share, international and cross-trading, with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulating technical standards for the industry. To work well internationally and within the EU, better controls of and compliance with the MLC 2006 are required. The EESC sees a crucial role for EMSA in contributing significantly to better enforcement and engaging in the recommendations of the Commission’s Study on social aspects within the maritime transport sector (2020).












5.4.


However, the international character and the international framework of shipping do not mean that it must be the only way to regulate seafarers’ conditions of employment. The EESC encourages the EU and its Member States to proceed with reforms of their national shipping scheme when they see and recognise the need to act.












5.5.


The EESC advocates a new social contract for seafarers that goes beyond minimum international standards and recognises decent employers who go beyond mere compliance. Seafarers are excluded from several pieces of horizontal labour legislation. The EESC is concerned that seafarers have become a category of workers with fewer rights than any other category of workers in the EU.












5.6.


The EESC urges the Commission to also support a global call for a ‘new social contract underpinned by social dialogue, labour rights, a “Just transition” to a green economy and new technologies’ to lead the global maritime industry ‘towards a safe, equitable and human-centred future’ (3).












5.7.


The EESC highlights the importance of quality registries and of qualified seafarers in maintaining a high level of European maritime security. EU quality registries and adequately qualified, trained and certified seafarers can pave the way for this. The EESC also notes the weaknesses exposed by the substandard registries of third countries.




6.   Investment policies and the sector’s competitiveness









6.1.


The EESC stresses the need to sustainably manage marine resources and coordinate Member States’ investments and developments in maritime spaces. Investment in sustainable and innovative maritime infrastructure includes port modernisation and sufficient long-term funding for R&D for new green technologies. An alternative version of green finance that could also be examined and applied to investments in the maritime sector (‘blue finance’) should incorporate criteria such as water preservation, the sustainability of fish stocks, maritime resilience and social conditionalities. A declining trend of European banks lending to the shipping industry may lead to further competitiveness losses in the EU compared to other, non-EU countries.












6.2.


To preserve the competitiveness of EU shipping and facilitate its transition to net-zero emissions, significant investments will be required. The Draghi report estimates that investment needs for shipping alone will be around EUR 40 billion each year from 2031 to 2050. Public finance will of course be necessary to reach such levels; however, the EESC calls for social conditionalities that respect workers’ rights and just transition principles.












6.3.


Decarbonising the sector not only entails high transition costs but also uncertainty about the availability and safe use of alternative fuels. Maritime industries must promptly take initiatives to ensure access to low-carbon energy resources and the availability and safety of industrial technologies aligned with these objectives. Their efforts must be supported by incentives and support mechanisms, as well as a coherent regulatory framework at both EU and international level. Focus should be put on development and innovation and on securing sufficient and safe production for the needs of the industry and a competitive European market.












6.4.


The EESC advocates that flag states must live up to their international obligations under the international maritime conventions and rules. Some international registers are of good quality; however, many qualify as substandard. Flag registers should not be allowed to operate as businesses.












6.5.


The EESC advocates a true level playing field with proper compliance and strict enforcement of international standards, so that EU shipping is protected against substandard registries. The EESC stresses the need to create an enabling environment for the reflagging of EU controlled tonnage back to EU national flags. Substandard vessels must not be allowed to operate in European waters. Such practices are creating an uneven playing field, disadvantaging shipowners who adhere to stricter regulations and higher standards in their home countries and worldwide.












6.6.


UNCLOS requires the existence of a genuine link between the ship and the country of registration, and requires the flag state to effectively exercise its jurisdiction and control in administrative, technical and social matters over ships flying its flag (art. 91 and 94). The EESC calls for the proper implementation and enforcement of Article 91 of UNCLOS and sees the need to provide more clarity about the obligations related to what a genuine link entails, to hold authorities, shipowners and flag states to account.




7.   Just transition in the maritime sector









7.1.


Environmental and social sustainability must be matched to ensure the transition to alternative fuels and new technologies in a just, equitable and holistic way. The transition will only happen if seafarers are meaningfully engaged in the process at every level, providing for adequate skills development or upgrading, as well as transitions between jobs where necessary.












7.2.


Following the adoption of the 2023 IMO Strategy on reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships, IMO Member States need to ensure a safe and sound transition of the world fleet towards net zero GHG emissions around, or close to 2050. This also includes the development of a regulatory framework for the safe handling of future marine fuels on board ships. Mid-term measures aim to provide the world fleet with a needed incentive, while contributing to a level playing field and a just and equitable transition.












7.3.


The Maritime Just Transition Task Force was formed by seafarers’ unions, shipowners and UN bodies the IMO, the United Nations Global Compact and the ILO to ensure that shipping’s response to the climate emergency puts seafarers and communities at the heart of the solution. It is a rare example of the maritime industry leading the way through collaboration. A joint 10-point action plan identifies key stepping stones to achieve a just transition for seafarers.












7.4.


For seafarers, a just transition means health and safety first, human-centred design, training and safe crewing. For the industry, structural change means a regulated and planned transition that involves sticking to the 1.5oC temperature increase. It means thinking about the shipping supply chain as a whole and equity on all levels: actively expanding the number of women in seafaring and ensuring that the transition benefits and does not come at the cost of countries in the Global South.












7.5.


The EESC points out that many answers are provided in the ILO 2015 Guidelines on Just Transition, including mechanisms for social dialogue among governments, workers and employers’ organisations throughout policymaking processes at all levels.




8.   Training









8.1.


The green and digital transitions will have a huge impact on the working lives of maritime professionals in all sectors, with the EU’s and Member States’ support for vocational training for workers needed. The Draghi report estimates that up to 250 000 seafarers in the EU could be affected in the coming years, while globally 800 000 seafarers would require additional training by the mid-2030s, according to the latest research commissioned by the Maritime Just Transition Task Force. Beyond reskilling and upskilling, retaining and recruiting seafarers will be essential for the present and future of the sector.












8.2.


The EESC believes that one of the biggest challenges is rapid technological development, which requires continuous updates to educational curricula.












8.3.


A review of the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) is currently under way, but it is a slow process. Addressing these challenges requires collaboration between educational institutions, policymakers, industry stakeholders and the broader community.




9.   Social dialogue and civil society involvement









9.1.


Involving affected communities and social partners in decision-making is crucial, so that the social benefits of sustainable development are evenly distributed and that projects have a long-term impact. This should include dedicated maritime policies and continuous social dialogue to ensure that jobs in maritime areas provide decent working conditions and social protection.












9.2.


The EESC engages with its partners to promote the sustainable development of maritime spaces, representing civil society, to ensure inclusive decision-making and develop participatory mechanisms.












9.3.


The EESC recommends investing in knowledge-building and networks for the sector’s stakeholders and civil society, to enable them to participate in the decision-making process.




10.   Specific comments









10.1.


The EESC recommends aiming for a more integrated approach and enhanced cooperation between ports and inland waterway stakeholders, benefiting trade, competitiveness and local economies.












10.2.


International cooperation in marine research within and outside the EU should be encouraged. The EESC highlights the importance of regional cooperation in the Mediterranean, North Sea, Arctic and Baltic Sea regions. It is essential to support cross-border projects and build cooperation frameworks between European and international players.












10.3.


Using Union Civil Protection Mechanism tools to protect the maritime environment in the event of disasters, attacks, accidents or other threats should be considered important in improving the EU’s response rate to ‘blue’ crises.












10.4.


It is important to support local initiatives that help protect marine ecosystems and ensure the well-being of communities, which could in turn support the creation of platforms where local communities, civil society organisations and other stakeholders can have a say in decisions regarding maritime spaces.












10.5.


Transparency and accountability should be ensured in maritime investment projects so that civil society can monitor their environmental and social impact.






Brussels, 22 January 2025.


The President


of the European Economic and Social Committee

Oliver RÖPKE
               





(1)  
            
OJ C, C/2023/876, 8.12.2023, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/C/2023/876/oj.

(2)  
            See mission letters to Commissioners-designate and Political Guidelines.

(3)  
            ILO Director-General delivers keynote speech to mark opening of Seafarer Summit 2050 in the Philippines, June 2023.




ANNEX
The following amendments, which received at least a quarter of the votes cast, were rejected during the discussion:

AMENDMENT 5


TEN/832


Towards an EU maritime strategy Navigating into the future


Point 5.1


Tabled by:

ANGELOVA Milena
ANTONIOU Michalis
BARCELÓ DELGADO Andrés
CATSAMBIS Constantine
CHAMPAS Panagiotis
DEGUARA Jason
DE MÛELENAERE Robert
DIMITRIADIS Dimitris
GAVRILOVS Vitālijs
HOŠTÁK Martin
IOANNIDIS Athanasios
KOLYVAS Ioannis
KRAWCZYK Jacek
KROPP Thomas
MALLIA Stefano
MASTANTUONO Alena
MAVROMMATIS Manthos
NOWACKI Marcin
PAIDAS Ioannis
PUECH D’ALISSAC Arnold
REALE Maurizio
RIZZO Benjamin
SÄKKINEN Teppo
SAMMUT BONNICI Dolores
STOEV Georgi
TEDER Reet
VARDAKASTANIS Ioannis
VERNICOS George
VON BROCKDORFF Philip
YIAPANIS Anastasis

Amend as follows:






Section opinion


Amendment




The sustainability of the EU shipping industry is dependent on the EU continuing to produce high-quality seafarers. To stay competitive 
on
 the European labour market, the EESC believes that the shipping sector 
needs
 to 
offer
 quality jobs 
and make
 ships 
a
 safe 
workplace that has
 zero tolerance for bullying and harassment 
and where seafarers
 enjoy fair pay 
and
 working conditions and the rights and protections they deserve. The EESC 
sees a real risk
 that 
the attractiveness of
 the seafaring profession 
for the
 younger European generations 
will remain unsatisfactory if
 the image 
of the industry
 and the working standards on board are 
not
 gradually 
improved
.


The sustainability of the EU shipping industry is dependent on the EU continuing to produce high-quality seafarers. To stay competitive 
in
 the European labour market, the EESC believes that the shipping sector 
must continue
 to 
provide
 quality jobs 
while ensuring
 ships 
are
 safe 
workplaces with
 zero tolerance for bullying and harassment
. Seafarers should
 enjoy fair pay
, decent
 working conditions and the rights and protections they deserve. The EESC 
highlights
 that the seafaring profession 
will struggle to attract
 younger European generations 
unless
 the 
industry’s
 image 
is improved, sea-blindness is addressed
 and the working standards on board are 
maintained and
 gradually 
enhanced
.





Reason







(a)


Shipping already provides quality, well-paid jobs, both on board and ashore.










(b)


A key issue affecting the attractiveness of the seafaring profession is sea-blindness. Many people remain unaware of the maritime sector’s critical role in their daily lives and the extensive career opportunities it offers. This should be clearly reflected in the text. Furthermore, attracting younger generations is a complex challenge influenced by various factors, including demographic, socio-economic, and geographical considerations, and is not solely dependent on the sector’s labour standards.










(c)


The text should also acknowledge that decent working standards are already in place. The term ‘enhanced’ is more precise than ‘improved’, as some updates to existing standards reflect technological and operational advancements (e.g., access to the internet).





Outcome of vote







Votes in favour:


92




Votes against:


124




Abstentions:


17





AMENDMENT 6


TEN/832


Towards an EU maritime strategy Navigating into the future


Point 5.2


Tabled by:

ANGELOVA Milena
ANTONIOU Michalis
BARCELÓ DELGADO Andrés
CATSAMBIS Constantine
CHAMPAS Panagiotis
DEGUARA Jason
DE MÛELENAERE Robert
DIMITRIADIS Dimitris
GAVRILOVS Vitālijs
HOŠTÁK Martin
IOANNIDIS Athanasios
KOLYVAS Ioannis
KRAWCZYK Jacek
KROPP Thomas
MALLIA Stefano
MASTANTUONO Alena
MAVROMMATIS Manthos
NOWACKI Marcin
PAIDAS Ioannis
PUECH D’ALISSAC Arnold
REALE Maurizio
RIZZO Benjamin
SÄKKINEN Teppo
SAMMUT BONNICI Dolores
STOEV Georgi
TEDER Reet
VARDAKASTANIS Ioannis
VERNICOS George
VON BROCKDORFF Philip
YIAPANIS Anastasis

Amend as follows:






Section opinion


Amendment




The EESC calls for a change in seafarers’ realities and for broader cooperation between governments and social partners on long-standing systemic issues to ensure more social sustainability, inclusion, diversity and equitability. This includes the 
efficient
 enforcement of existing legislation in the sector and the 
political will to undertake legally binding legislative initiatives
 to e.g. address gaps in seafarers’ social protection and pension schemes, fatigue at sea, access to shore leave and the need to prioritise data on seafaring.


The EESC calls for a change in seafarers’ realities and for broader cooperation between governments and social partners on long-standing systemic issues to ensure more social sustainability, inclusion, diversity and equitability. This includes the 
proper implementation and
 enforcement of existing legislation in the sector and the 
timely incorporation of international standards adopted at the ILO in the EU legislation
 to e.g. address 
any
 gaps in seafarers’ social protection and pension schemes, 
ensuring proper implementation of existing regulations to prevent
 fatigue at sea, 
and facilitate
 access to shore leave and the need to prioritise data on seafaring.





Reason

The deleted text replicates the content of point 1.10, for which an amendment has already been proposed.

Outcome of vote (linked to amendment 18)







Votes in favour:


100




Votes against:


130




Abstentions:


11





AMENDMENT 7


TEN/832


Towards an EU maritime strategy Navigating into the future


Point 5.3


Tabled by:

ANGELOVA Milena
ANTONIOU Michalis
BARCELÓ DELGADO Andrés
CATSAMBIS Constantine
CHAMPAS Panagiotis
DEGUARA Jason
DE MÛELENAERE Robert
DIMITRIADIS Dimitris
GAVRILOVS Vitālijs
HOŠTÁK Martin
IOANNIDIS Athanasios
KOLYVAS Ioannis
KRAWCZYK Jacek
KROPP Thomas
MALLIA Stefano
MASTANTUONO Alena
MAVROMMATIS Manthos
NOWACKI Marcin
PAIDAS Ioannis
PUECH D’ALISSAC Arnold
REALE Maurizio
RIZZO Benjamin
SÄKKINEN Teppo
SAMMUT BONNICI Dolores
STOEV Georgi
TEDER Reet
VARDAKASTANIS Ioannis
VERNICOS George
VON BROCKDORFF Philip
YIAPANIS Anastasis

Amend as follows:






Section opinion


Amendment




EU shipping is, in its largest share, international and cross-trading, with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulating technical standards for the industry. To 
work well
 internationally and within the EU, 
better controls of and
 compliance with the MLC 2006 
are
 required
. The EESC sees a crucial role for EMSA in contributing significantly to better enforcement and engaging in the recommendations of the Commission’s Study on social aspects within the maritime transport sector (2020)
.


EU shipping is, in its largest share, international and cross-trading, with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulating technical standards for the industry. To 
operate
 internationally and within the EU, compliance with the MLC 2006 
is always
 required.





Reason







(a)


Rewording was necessary to make proper sense of the second sentence.










(b)


The deleted text reflects a proposal of the European Parliament during the negotiations on the Flag State Directive which did not go through in the revised Directive as agreed during the trilogue negotiations and adopted in November 2024. Bringing this back just a few months later disregards the legislative bodies decision.





Outcome of vote (linked to amendment 19)







Votes in favour:


91




Votes against:


145




Abstentions:


8





AMENDMENT 8


TEN/832


Towards an EU maritime strategy Navigating into the future


Point 5.4


Tabled by:

ANGELOVA Milena
ANTONIOU Michalis
BARCELÓ DELGADO Andrés
CATSAMBIS Constantine
CHAMPAS Panagiotis
DEGUARA Jason
DE MÛELENAERE Robert
DIMITRIADIS Dimitris
GAVRILOVS Vitālijs
HOŠTÁK Martin
IOANNIDIS Athanasios
KOLYVAS Ioannis
KRAWCZYK Jacek
KROPP Thomas
MALLIA Stefano
MASTANTUONO Alena
MAVROMMATIS Manthos
NOWACKI Marcin
PAIDAS Ioannis
PUECH D’ALISSAC Arnold
REALE Maurizio
RIZZO Benjamin
SÄKKINEN Teppo
SAMMUT BONNICI Dolores
STOEV Georgi
TEDER Reet
VARDAKASTANIS Ioannis
VERNICOS George
VON BROCKDORFF Philip
YIAPANIS Anastasis

Amend as follows:






Section opinion


Amendment






However, the international character and the international framework of shipping do not mean that it must be the only way to regulate seafarers’ conditions of employment.
 The EESC encourages the EU and its Member States to proceed with reforms of their national shipping scheme when they see and recognise the need to act.


The EESC encourages the EU and its Member States to proceed with reforms of their national shipping scheme when they see and recognise the need to act 
while fully respecting to the international regulatory framework, in particular UNCLOS rules on flag state jurisdiction
.





Reason

The deletion as well as the added text are necessary, otherwise the text could be read as unduly inviting Member States to extend their national legislation to visiting foreign vessels, contrary to Article 94 of UNCLOS which sets out that ‘every State shall effectively exercise its jurisdiction and control in administrative, technical and social matters over ships flying its flag. 2. In particular every State shall: … (b) assume jurisdiction under its internal law over each ship flying its flag and its master, officers and crew in respect of administrative, technical and social matters concerning the ship’.

Outcome of vote







Votes in favour:


90




Votes against:


141




Abstentions:


8





AMENDMENT 9


TEN/832


Towards an EU maritime strategy Navigating into the future


Point 5.5


Tabled by:

ANGELOVA Milena
ANTONIOU Michalis
BARCELÓ DELGADO Andrés
CATSAMBIS Constantine
CHAMPAS Panagiotis
DEGUARA Jason
DE MÛELENAERE Robert
DIMITRIADIS Dimitris
GAVRILOVS Vitālijs
HOŠTÁK Martin
IOANNIDIS Athanasios
KOLYVAS Ioannis
KRAWCZYK Jacek
KROPP Thomas
MALLIA Stefano
MASTANTUONO Alena
MAVROMMATIS Manthos
NOWACKI Marcin
PAIDAS Ioannis
PUECH D’ALISSAC Arnold
REALE Maurizio
RIZZO Benjamin
SÄKKINEN Teppo
SAMMUT BONNICI Dolores
STOEV Georgi
TEDER Reet
VARDAKASTANIS Ioannis
VERNICOS George
VON BROCKDORFF Philip
YIAPANIS Anastasis

Amend as follows:






Section opinion


Amendment




The EESC 
advocates a new social contract for seafarers that goes beyond minimum international standards and
 recognises decent employers who go beyond mere compliance
. Seafarers are excluded from several pieces of horizontal labour legislation. The EESC is concerned that seafarers have become a category of workers with fewer rights than any other category of workers in the EU
.


The EESC recognises decent employers who go beyond mere compliance.





Reason







(a)


The reference to a ‘new social contract’ should be removed for the reasons outlined in point 1.10.










(b)


Seafarers were previously excluded from EU horizontal labour legislation. However, this is no longer the case following the adoption of Directive 2015/1794, which amended Directives 2008/94/EC, 2009/38/EC, 2002/14/EC, 98/59/EC and 2001/23/EC with regard to seafarers.










(c)


The claim that seafarers are the ‘category of workers with fewer rights than any other category of workers in the EU’ is unfounded. It perpetuates outdated perceptions of the maritime profession – rooted in the past century – that unfairly harm the profession’s attractiveness and is factually inaccurate.





Outcome of vote







Votes in favour:


91




Votes against:


138




Abstentions:


9





AMENDMENT 10


TEN/832


Towards an EU maritime strategy Navigating into the future


Point 5.6


Tabled by:

ANGELOVA Milena
ANTONIOU Michalis
BARCELÓ DELGADO Andrés
CATSAMBIS Constantine
CHAMPAS Panagiotis
DEGUARA Jason
DE MÛELENAERE Robert
DIMITRIADIS Dimitris
GAVRILOVS Vitālijs
HOŠTÁK Martin
IOANNIDIS Athanasios
KOLYVAS Ioannis
KRAWCZYK Jacek
KROPP Thomas
MALLIA Stefano
MASTANTUONO Alena
MAVROMMATIS Manthos
NOWACKI Marcin
PAIDAS Ioannis
PUECH D’ALISSAC Arnold
REALE Maurizio
RIZZO Benjamin
SÄKKINEN Teppo
SAMMUT BONNICI Dolores
STOEV Georgi
TEDER Reet
VARDAKASTANIS Ioannis
VERNICOS George
VON BROCKDORFF Philip
YIAPANIS Anastasis

Amend as follows:






Section opinion


Amendment




The EESC urges the Commission to also support a global call for a 
‘new social contract underpinned by social dialogue, labour rights, a
“Just transition” to a green economy and new technologies’ to lead the global maritime industry ‘towards a safe, equitable and human-centred future’(1).


The EESC urges the Commission to also support a global call for a ‘“Just transition” to a green economy and new technologies’ to lead the global maritime industry ‘towards a safe, equitable and human-centred future’(1).




(1) ILO Director-General delivers keynote speech to mark opening of Seafarer Summit 2050 in the Philippines, June 2023.


(1) ILO Director-General delivers keynote speech to mark opening of Seafarer Summit 2050 in the Philippines, June 2023.





Reason

The reference to a ‘new social contract’ should be removed for the reasons outlined in point 1.10.

Outcome of vote







Votes in favour:


90




Votes against:


144




Abstentions:


5





AMENDMENT 11


TEN/832


Towards an EU maritime strategy Navigating into the future


Point 6.1


Tabled by:

ANGELOVA Milena
ANTONIOU Michalis
BARCELÓ DELGADO Andrés
CATSAMBIS Constantine
CHAMPAS Panagiotis
DEGUARA Jason
DE MÛELENAERE Robert
DIMITRIADIS Dimitris
GAVRILOVS Vitālijs
HOŠTÁK Martin
IOANNIDIS Athanasios
KOLYVAS Ioannis
KRAWCZYK Jacek
KROPP Thomas
MALLIA Stefano
MASTANTUONO Alena
MAVROMMATIS Manthos
NOWACKI Marcin
PAIDAS Ioannis
PUECH D’ALISSAC Arnold
REALE Maurizio
RIZZO Benjamin
SÄKKINEN Teppo
SAMMUT BONNICI Dolores
STOEV Georgi
TEDER Reet
VARDAKASTANIS Ioannis
VERNICOS George
VON BROCKDORFF Philip
YIAPANIS Anastasis

Amend as follows:






Section opinion


Amendment




The EESC stresses the need to sustainably manage marine resources and coordinate Member States’ investments and developments in maritime spaces. Investment in sustainable and innovative maritime infrastructure includes port modernisation and sufficient long-term funding for R&D for new green technologies. 
An alternative version of green finance that could also be examined and applied to investments in the maritime sector (‘blue finance’) should incorporate criteria such as water preservation, the sustainability of fish stocks, maritime resilience and social conditionalities.
 A declining trend of European banks lending to the shipping industry may lead to further competitiveness losses in the EU compared to other, non-EU countries.



The EESC stresses the need to sustainably manage marine resources and coordinate Member States’ investments and developments in maritime spaces. Investment in sustainable and innovative maritime infrastructure includes port modernisation and sufficient long-term funding for R&D for new green technologies. A declining trend of European banks lending to the shipping industry may lead to further competitiveness losses in the EU compared to other, non-EU countries





Reason

The deleted text introduces the concept of a social taxonomy and other additional criteria that are unclear as to their application. It should be noted that the recommendations of the EU Sustainable Finance Platform on a social taxonomy were not adopted for several reasons. The classification of activities as socially sustainable or harmful is highly context-dependent and often shaped by national frameworks, including industrial relations systems. Moreover, many potential objectives of a social taxonomy, such as those related to collective bargaining and wages, fall outside the EU’s remit, making it potentially unsuitable due to its prescriptive and detailed nature. Additionally, the deleted text has potentially broader implications that have not been thoroughly considered.

Outcome of vote







Votes in favour:


92




Votes against:


142




Abstentions:


6





AMENDMENT 12


TEN/832


Towards an EU maritime strategy Navigating into the future


Point 6.2


Tabled by:

ANGELOVA Milena
ANTONIOU Michalis
BARCELÓ DELGADO Andrés
CATSAMBIS Constantine
CHAMPAS Panagiotis
DEGUARA Jason
DE MÛELENAERE Robert
DIMITRIADIS Dimitris
GAVRILOVS Vitālijs
HOŠTÁK Martin
IOANNIDIS Athanasios
KOLYVAS Ioannis
KRAWCZYK Jacek
KROPP Thomas
MALLIA Stefano
MASTANTUONO Alena
MAVROMMATIS Manthos
NOWACKI Marcin
PAIDAS Ioannis
PUECH D’ALISSAC Arnold
REALE Maurizio
RIZZO Benjamin
SÄKKINEN Teppo
SAMMUT BONNICI Dolores
STOEV Georgi
TEDER Reet
VARDAKASTANIS Ioannis
VERNICOS George
VON BROCKDORFF Philip
YIAPANIS Anastasis

Amend as follows:






Section opinion


Amendment




To preserve the competitiveness of EU shipping and facilitate its transition to net-zero emissions, significant investments will be required. The Draghi report estimates that investment needs for shipping alone will be around EUR 40 billion each year from 2031 to 2050. Public finance will of course be necessary to reach such levels; however, the EESC calls for 
social conditionalities that
 respect workers’ rights 
and just transition principles
.


To preserve the competitiveness of EU shipping and facilitate its transition to net-zero emissions, significant investments will be required. The Draghi report estimates that investment needs for shipping alone will be around EUR 40 billion each year from 2031 to 2050. Public finance will of course be necessary to reach such levels; however, the EESC calls for 
a just transition with
 respect 
for
 workers’ rights.





Reason

The reference to ‘social conditionalities’ should be removed for the reasons outlined in point 6.1.

Outcome of vote







Votes in favour:


98




Votes against:


140




Abstentions:


3





AMENDMENT 13


TEN/832


Towards an EU maritime strategy Navigating into the future


Point 6.3


Tabled by:

ANGELOVA Milena
ANTONIOU Michalis
BARCELÓ DELGADO Andrés
CATSAMBIS Constantine
CHAMPAS Panagiotis
DEGUARA Jason
DE MÛELENAERE Robert
DIMITRIADIS Dimitris
GAVRILOVS Vitālijs
HOŠTÁK Martin
IOANNIDIS Athanasios
KOLYVAS Ioannis
KRAWCZYK Jacek
KROPP Thomas
MALLIA Stefano
MASTANTUONO Alena
MAVROMMATIS Manthos
NOWACKI Marcin
PAIDAS Ioannis
PUECH D’ALISSAC Arnold
REALE Maurizio
RIZZO Benjamin
SÄKKINEN Teppo
SAMMUT BONNICI Dolores
STOEV Georgi
TEDER Reet
VARDAKASTANIS Ioannis
VERNICOS George
VON BROCKDORFF Philip
YIAPANIS Anastasis

Amend as follows:






Section opinion


Amendment




Decarbonising the sector not only entails high transition costs but also uncertainty about the availability and safe use of alternative fuels. 
Maritime industries
 must promptly take initiatives to ensure access to low-carbon energy resources and the availability and safety of industrial technologies aligned with these objectives. Their efforts must be supported by incentives and support mechanisms, as well as a coherent regulatory framework at both EU and international level. Focus should be put on development and innovation and on securing sufficient and safe production for the needs of the industry and a competitive European market.


Decarbonising the sector not only entails high transition costs but also uncertainty about the availability and safe use of alternative fuels. 
Fuel producers and suppliers, shipyards, engine producers and relevant stakeholders
 must promptly take initiatives to ensure access to low-carbon energy resources and the availability and safety of industrial technologies aligned with these objectives. Their efforts must be supported by incentives and support mechanisms, as well as a coherent regulatory framework at both EU and international level. Focus should be put on development and innovation and on securing sufficient and safe production for the needs of the industry and a competitive European market.





Reason

The amended text overlooks the fact that the maritime industry depends on stakeholders outside the industry to produce carbon-neutral fuels and technologies, including ship engines and cleaner propulsion systems. Shipowners are neither fuel producers nor manufacturers of vessels or engines.

Outcome of vote







Votes in favour:


92




Votes against:


142




Abstentions:


8





AMENDMENT 16


TEN/832


Towards an EU maritime strategy Navigating into the future


Point 1.2


Tabled by:

ANGELOVA Milena
ANTONIOU Michalis
BARCELÓ DELGADO Andrés
CATSAMBIS Constantine
CHAMPAS Panagiotis
DEGUARA Jason
DE MÛELENAERE Robert
DIMITRIADIS Dimitris
GAVRILOVS Vitālijs
HOŠTÁK Martin
IOANNIDIS Athanasios
KOLYVAS Ioannis
KRAWCZYK Jacek
KROPP Thomas
MALLIA Stefano
MASTANTUONO Alena
MAVROMMATIS Manthos
NOWACKI Marcin
PAIDAS Ioannis
PUECH D’ALISSAC Arnold
REALE Maurizio
RIZZO Benjamin
SÄKKINEN Teppo
SAMMUT BONNICI Dolores
STOEV Georgi
TEDER Reet
VARDAKASTANIS Ioannis
VERNICOS George
VON BROCKDORFF Philip
YIAPANIS Anastasis

Amend as follows:






Section opinion


Amendment




The EESC calls for a new EU maritime strategy reflecting the importance of the sector for the EU economy and the well-being of its citizens. A holistic approach will ensure the sustainable development of the maritime space, foster maritime security and defence capacities, strengthen the blue economy, and promote the active involvement of the social partners and civil society as well as regional and global cooperation. Its recommendations aim to create a European maritime 
space
 for more competitive and economically, environmentally and socially sustainable EU shipping with clear and transparent rules [1].


The EESC calls for a new EU maritime strategy reflecting the importance of the sector for the EU economy and the well-being of its citizens. A holistic approach will ensure the sustainable development of the maritime space, foster maritime security and defence capacities, strengthen the blue economy, and promote the active involvement of the social partners and civil society as well as regional and global cooperation. Its recommendations aim to create a European maritime 
strategy
 for more competitive and economically, environmentally and socially sustainable EU shipping with clear and transparent rules [1].




[1] OJ C, C/2023/876, 8.12.2023.


[1] OJ C, C/2023/876, 8.12.2023.





Reason


                  ‘Strategy’ should replace ‘space’ (as in the opinion’s title) to encompass the international character of EU shipping. The word ‘space’ limits the scope of the text to domestic EU shipping, which constitutes only a fraction of EU shipping.

Outcome of vote







Votes in favour:


90




Votes against:


146




Abstentions:


5





AMENDMENT 18


TEN/832


Towards an EU maritime strategy Navigating into the future


Point 1.10


Tabled by:

ANGELOVA Milena
ANTONIOU Michalis
BARCELÓ DELGADO Andrés
CATSAMBIS Constantine
CHAMPAS Panagiotis
DEGUARA Jason
DE MÛELENAERE Robert
DIMITRIADIS Dimitris
GAVRILOVS Vitālijs
HOŠTÁK Martin
IOANNIDIS Athanasios
KOLYVAS Ioannis
KRAWCZYK Jacek
KROPP Thomas
MALLIA Stefano
MASTANTUONO Alena
MAVROMMATIS Manthos
NOWACKI Marcin
PAIDAS Ioannis
PUECH D’ALISSAC Arnold
REALE Maurizio
RIZZO Benjamin
SÄKKINEN Teppo
SAMMUT BONNICI Dolores
STOEV Georgi
TEDER Reet
VARDAKASTANIS Ioannis
VERNICOS George
VON BROCKDORFF Philip
YIAPANIS Anastasis

Amend as follows:






Section opinion


Amendment






New social contract
: This includes the efficient enforcement of existing legislation in the sector and the 
political will
 to 
undertake legally binding legislative initiatives offering
 seafarers the same level of social protection as people working ashore. The EESC calls on the Commission to prioritise 
action on
 gaps in seafarers’ social protection and pension schemes, fatigue at sea and access to shore leave. Both the shipping industry and the EU and its Member States must be ambitious to make the profession more attractive and improve the welfare of seafarers.




Social elements
: This includes the efficient enforcement of existing legislation in the sector and the 
timely incorporation of international standards in the EU legislation
 to 
ensure that
 seafarers 
enjoy
 the same 
level or as comparable as possible
 level of social protection as people working ashore. The EESC calls on the Commission to prioritise 
actions aimed at identifying
 gaps in seafarers’ social protection and pension schemes, 
ensuring proper implementation of existing regulations to prevent
 fatigue at sea and 
facilitating
 access to shore leave. Both the shipping industry and the EU and its Member States must be ambitious to make the profession more attractive and improve the welfare of seafarers.





Reason







(a)


The term ‘new social contract’ reflects recent theoretical discussions at the ILO following the COVID-19 pandemic and assumes that a new social contract is necessary to address global crises, inequality, and outdated systems. It aims to integrate employment, sustainable development, and social protection with equal rights for all, advocating global, comprehensive change rather than focusing on a specific sector, such as maritime, or a particular nation. The ‘New Social Contract’ terminology refers to relationships between governments and their peoples, not to sectors of industry. Consequently, the need for a ‘new social contract’ at EU level is unsubstantiated and should instead be replaced with a reference to ‘social elements’.










(b)


The maritime sector, in particular, is unique in having detailed, globally applicable minimum labour standards and a global mechanism for setting a minimum wage, ensuring decent work and fair pay for seafarers. The ILO Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, has been in force since 2013, ratified by over 100 states, and is enforced globally by flag and port states. At EU level, the MLC, 2006, has been implemented through Social Partners’ Agreements endorsed by Council Directives, establishing a minimum framework for national legislation.










(c)


The MLC, 2006 establishes a mechanism for periodic review (every 2-3 years), where governments and social partners (shipowners and seafarers) discuss potential amendments to the Convention. This process is mirrored at EU level through EU Member States’ preparations, including consultation with social partners, for ILO meetings on the MLC review. The next MLC review is scheduled for April 2025. However, amendments to the MLC, 2006, adopted by the ILO in 2016, 2018, and 2022, have not yet been incorporated into EU law. Addressing this incorporation should be the priority at EU level rather than pursuing undefined legally binding initiatives. Furthermore, it is to be noted that social protection on board ships should be encouraged and ensured; however, it is not comparable to working ashore as the context and conditions are completely different (e.g. provision of medical care on board).










(d)


On fatigue: International regulations on hours of work and rest for seafarers, along with the IMO’s 2019 Guidelines on the Prevention of Seafarers’ Fatigue, are already in place and should be properly implemented and enforced.





Outcome of vote (linked to amendment 6)







Votes in favour:


100




Votes against:


130




Abstentions:


11





AMENDMENT 19


TEN/832


Towards an EU maritime strategy Navigating into the future


Point 1.11


Tabled by:

ANGELOVA Milena
ANTONIOU Michalis
BARCELÓ DELGADO Andrés
CATSAMBIS Constantine
CHAMPAS Panagiotis
DEGUARA Jason
DE MÛELENAERE Robert
DIMITRIADIS Dimitris
GAVRILOVS Vitālijs
HOŠTÁK Martin
IOANNIDIS Athanasios
KOLYVAS Ioannis
KRAWCZYK Jacek
KROPP Thomas
MALLIA Stefano
MASTANTUONO Alena
MAVROMMATIS Manthos
NOWACKI Marcin
PAIDAS Ioannis
PUECH D’ALISSAC Arnold
REALE Maurizio
RIZZO Benjamin
SÄKKINEN Teppo
SAMMUT BONNICI Dolores
STOEV Georgi
TEDER Reet
VARDAKASTANIS Ioannis
VERNICOS George
VON BROCKDORFF Philip
YIAPANIS Anastasis

Delete point







Section opinion


Amendment






Maritime safety: The EESC sees a crucial role for the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) in contributing significantly to better enforcement of the Maritime Labour Conventions (MLC) and engaging in recommendations on social aspects within the maritime transport sector. EMSA statistics can help provide reliable data by including ratings in their database.




 





Reason

The deleted text reflects a proposal that was discussed during the negotiations on the Flag State Directive which did not go through in the revised Directive as agreed and adopted in November 2024. Bringing this back just a few months later disregards the legislative bodies decision.

Outcome of vote (linked to amendment 7)







Votes in favour:


91




Votes against:


145




Abstentions:


11





AMENDMENT 20


TEN/832


Towards an EU maritime strategy Navigating into the future


Point 1.12


Tabled by:

ANGELOVA Milena
ANTONIOU Michalis
BARCELÓ DELGADO Andrés
CATSAMBIS Constantine
CHAMPAS Panagiotis
DEGUARA Jason
DE MÛELENAERE Robert
DIMITRIADIS Dimitris
GAVRILOVS Vitālijs
HOŠTÁK Martin
IOANNIDIS Athanasios
KOLYVAS Ioannis
KRAWCZYK Jacek
KROPP Thomas
MALLIA Stefano
MASTANTUONO Alena
MAVROMMATIS Manthos
NOWACKI Marcin
PAIDAS Ioannis
PUECH D’ALISSAC Arnold
REALE Maurizio
RIZZO Benjamin
SÄKKINEN Teppo
SAMMUT BONNICI Dolores
STOEV Georgi
TEDER Reet
VARDAKASTANIS Ioannis
VERNICOS George
VON BROCKDORFF Philip
YIAPANIS Anastasis

Amend as follows:






Section opinion


Amendment




Involving social partners and civil society: The unique setting of the European social dialogue 
coupled with
 the Commission 
as legislator
 is an opportunity for the EU to set examples and push for international standards to be improved. Employers, unions and governments must cooperate 
to define a new social contract for seafarers and
 to secure recruitment and retention for the future of the maritime sector.


Involving social partners and civil society: The unique setting of the European social dialogue 
supported by
 the Commission is an opportunity for the EU to set examples and push for international standards to be improved. Employers, unions and governments must cooperate to secure recruitment and retention for the future of the maritime sector.





Reason







(a)


The EU Commission is an executive body, not a legislative one.










(b)


The term ‘new social contract’ should be removed for the reasons outlined in point 1.10.





Outcome of vote







Votes in favour:


105




Votes against:


136




Abstentions:


4







ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/C/2025/1186/oj
ISSN 1977-091X (electronic edition)