This year’s main topic focused on Nordic and European cooperation related to MARPOL, alternative fuels, new technology, manning, STCW and hours of rest, as well as shared sustainability goals. The discussions also explored how to attract and retain more seafaring engineers — especially young professionals — in long-term maritime careers.

The Congress opened with a welcome address by NMF President Odd Rune Malterud, who also presented a statement from Nikolaos Koletsis of the European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF).

Dr. Maria Carrera Arce and Prof. Raphael Baumler from the World Maritime University (WMU) presented findings from their research and report “Working Time at Sea: Normality and Decent Work,” which was followed by a lively discussion.

Further presentations were given by Anu Hietala from the Nordic Transport Workers’ Federation (NTF) and Lydia Ferrad from the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), who spoke about ongoing efforts to strengthen human safety work at both Nordic and international levels.

The Congress concluded with the definition of common goals for future cooperation and a guided “walk-through” of the World Maritime University.