Updates from around the globe on the ITF’s work to build a fairer, safer and more just world for seafarers. Our news section covers issues affecting all seafarers, wherever they may be, and what we’re doing to improve seafarers’ lives and jobs, now and in the future.
News
Working for a fairer, safer, more just world.
News
09 September 2025
Peter McEwen
It is with deep sadness that the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) marks the passing of Peter McEwen (MBE MNM) a tireless advocate for seafarers around the world.
News
08 September 2025
ASOS and ITF team up to protect workers’ rights with new transport supply chain agreement
Landmark deal extends ASOS’ commitment to workers’ rights into global transport and logistics.
ASOS, the global fashion destination, has signed a legally-binding agreemen
News
06 September 2025
“Please save us” – plea from abandoned seafarers on sanctioned ship in UAE
Global Peace crew now out of fuel, left in dark, burning wood to cook
Desperate seafarers abandoned on a sanctione
News
29 August 2025
UAE must act now to end shocking abandonment of seafarers on sanctioned ship
Seafarers from India, Bangladesh and Ukraine trapped aboard oil tanker in Persian Gulf holding fake agreements and no insurance.
News
22 August 2025
ITF leads inaugural mental health and wellbeing training in the Philippines
Maritime teachers from across Philippines join new training programme agreed in February 2025
Mental health and wellbeing tra
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13 August 2025
ITF welcomes Captain Bekavac’s return, urges release of Chief Mate Albokhari
The ITF welcomes the news that Captain Bekavac has been able to return home to Croatia and reunite with his family after a long period of detention.
At the same time, we are extremely
News
11 August 2025
Independent Federation of Myanmar Seafarers Opens New Office in Bangkok
The Independent Federation of Myanmar Seafarers (IFOMS) is celebrating the opening of its
News
31 July 2025
Petrobras rejects sham union, ISU
Slovenian sham union’s sub-standard agreements dismissed by major Brazilian oil company
Notorious s
News
15 July 2025
Seafarer abandonments cases surge by 30% in 2025
Over 2,280 seafarers have been abandoned aboard 222 vessels so far this year – with $13.1 million in unpaid wages and a 30% year-on-year increase in cases
New figures released today b
News
03 July 2025
ITF raises alarm over rising dangers to seafarers in Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman and Israeli waters
The ITF voiced its concern this week to the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG) regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman and Israeli ports and asked that these areas be designated as Warlike Op
News
27 June 2025