The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) has urged governments to use the coming year to rebuild trust and reach agreement on a fair and practical path to decarbonising shipping — one that puts seafarers at its core.
The call follows the decision by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) on 17 October to postpone the vote on its Net-Zero Framework for one year. The framework was expected to outline measures for implementing the IMO’s 2023 greenhouse gas (GHG) strategy, including timelines and obligations for industry actors.
ITF Seafarers’ Section Coordinator, Fabrizio Barcellona, said the decision reflects the complexity and importance of the task ahead – but warned that the industry cannot afford to stand still.
“While this delay reflects the complexity and importance of the decisions ahead, the process of decarbonising shipping cannot wait – and it cannot succeed without seafarers,” Barcellona said.
“Seafarers and the industry are already moving ahead, operating new and cleaner vessels and developing the skills that will power the maritime transition. This work cannot and will not stop.”
Barcellona said the ITF hopes the year ahead will be used to strengthen trust and rebuild consensus at the IMO, ensuring that future decisions support both the industry’s transition and the professional seafarers who will deliver it.
“We urge IMO Member States to continue working collaboratively with industry partners to take the necessary measures toward a safe, just and fair maritime future,” he said.
The ITF represents over 700 transport unions worldwide, including hundreds of thousands of seafarers. The Federation continues to advocate for a just transition in shipping – one that prioritises safety, skills, and decent work as the industry shifts to new fuels and technologies.
Image credit: REUTERS
