On Tuesday, Greta Thunberg and the Green Youth Movement occupied Maersk Tankers’ offices in Copenhagen, protesting the company’s fossil fuel transport. Activists criticized perceived “greenwashing” and called for an end to weapon shipments to Israel, reflecting broader anti-war sentiments. Freya Skriver urged Maersk to halt oil and gas transport.
Since Thursday evening, pilots and maritime workers in Flemish ports have been protesting government pension plans. They fear cuts of up to 45% in pensions for young seafarers and pilots. While the pilots have not gone on strike, delays in ship departures have already been seen. Efforts are being made to minimize waiting times for ships.
Dockworkers in India are frustrated with the slow pace of wage and service reforms, leading to nationwide protests. The National Coordination Committee of Major Port & Dock Workers Federations organized demonstrations in support of unions. Despite a deadline of December 15, no action has been taken, prompting preparations for a nationwide strike.
The 21 crewmembers of the bulker Debi, detained for a year on charges of drug smuggling, have staged a protest to draw attention to their situation. Managed by Asia Pacific Shipping Co. of Hanoi, Vietnam, the vessel has been detained since December 2023 and officially placed under arrest in February 2024.
A group of environmentalists in Marseille, France, formed a human chain using small boats to block the port, drawing attention to the environmental impact of cruise ships and their connection to global warming. The demonstration, led by the group Stop Croisières and Extinction Rebellion, involved approximately 20 individuals who used canoes to block the entrance.
Environmental activists from the Dutch branch of Extinction Rebellion caused delays for three cruise ships and an oil product tanker on August 18. The group aimed to raise awareness about climate and ecological issues, demanding an immediate end to the cruise industry. Despite police intervention, the protestors were released without arrest, allowing the vessels to proceed.
