MTWTU Video Highlights the Importance of Trade Unions in Maritime Transport

In April, the Marine Transport Workers’ Trade Union of Ukraine (MTWTU) released an animated video titled “The Union Power” created under the program “Trade Unions Fighting Inequality and Reconstructing Peace and Democracy in Ukraine”. 

The video illustrates how the disappearance of trade unions can lead to systemic violations of labor rights, such as longer working hours without adequate rest, unpaid wages and overtime, deteriorating working conditions, and the absence of insurance and social guarantees. 

It highlights the specific impact of these violations on maritime transport, where labor standard breaches can cause vessel delays, port disruptions, and consequently, interruptions in global logistics and supply chains. 

Additionally, the video underscores the vital role of collective agreements and reminds viewers that current labor rights are the result of years of trade union efforts. Maintaining these rights heavily relies on workers’ solidarity and active involvement in trade union activities.