The Maersk network has been set up in recognition of the fact that, either directly or indirectly, thousands of ITF transport workers are employed by this global company.
Maersk is the parent company of Maersk Line, Safmarine and MCC Transport global container shipping companies, it also owns global network terminal operator APM terminals.
The network of seafarer and docker unions is designed to promote the needs of workers who are employed by Maersk, to identify priority areas of work and to give the ITF negotiating strength with the company.
In April 2016 the network achieved one of its main objectives by getting agreement from Maersk that it will ensure that any vessel it charters has an ITF or similar agreement – which puts in place protections for crews on flag of convenience ships – covering it.
This work has been followed up in 2019 with some ITF research to look at Maersk chartered ships in relation to current agreements we have recorded in our database. Arising from this work the ITF has agreed with Maersk that additional steps need to be put in place by the company to ensure full compliance.
Through discussion and negotiation the network has also agreed on two other main objectives:
- To put together a union training and development programme to support new unions in APM terminals across the Arab World and Africa in building their bargaining capacity and in establishing strong unions. Also assess APM’s Latin America growth strategy and identify priorities for the global network terminals campaign.
- To build on the Maersk corporate social responsibility policy and the Global Labour Compact so that there is genuine, practical engagement between the company and ITF trade unions.
- Read more about the latest activities in the Maersk Network in both Buenos Aires and Copenhagen in 2018.
Are you a union with members working for Maersk?
If you are, or you want more information on the network, contact Steve Yandell in the ITF maritime team: yandell_steve@itf.org.uk