EU adopts Nicosia Declaration: a course towards renewal and support for European shipping

Member states of the European Union have signed the Nicosia Declaration within the framework of the Informal Council of Ministers responsible for maritime transport. The document serves as an important political signal regarding the need to strengthen human potential in the European maritime industry.

The declaration emphasizes that the future of shipping in the EU is directly linked to the people working in the industry, especially against the backdrop of geopolitical changes, digitalization, and the transition to environmentally sustainable technologies.

The focus is on acute structural problems in the sector. These include a shortage of qualified personnel, an aging maritime workforce, issues concerning the occupational safety of seafarers, and the insufficient participation of women in maritime professions.

EU countries have agreed to enhance the training and retraining of specialists, including the mastery of digital systems, cybersecurity technologies, and the use of alternative fuels. Special emphasis is placed on adapting personnel to the requirements of the "green" transition.

The declaration separately highlights the need to protect the rights, safety, and dignity of seafarers in an increasingly complex international environment.

The document also sets a course toward more inclusive shipping, including increased participation of women, which is seen as a key factor for the industry's resilience and competitiveness.

The Nicosia Declaration will serve as the basis for further EU initiatives in maritime policy and social dialogue.

Cyprus, as the presiding party, expressed its satisfaction with the results of the work, noting that the document is an important step towards forming a sustainable, competitive, and socially responsible European shipping industry.