Shipbuilding unions global strategy for international cooperation
The shipbuilding industry has seen a remarkable 27 per cent growth since 2021, driven by the surge in international trade and defense investments. China stands out as the dominant player with a significant 60 per cent market share in compensated gross tonnage, supported by subsidies and a robust industrial ecosystem. To address this growth, countries have begun to strategically coordinate their efforts through various partnerships like AUKUS, the ICE pact, Japan-USA cooperation agreements, the Korean-US Make American Shipbuilding Great Again initiative, and British-Norwegian defense collaborations.
Challenges Faced by Workers Amidst Industry Boom
However, this growth has brought about significant challenges for workers in the industry. Labor shortages, lack of skilled workers entering the field, aging workforces, heavy reliance on subcontractors and migrant workers, and compromises on health and safety standards have become universal issues across countries like Japan, South Korea, the US, and Italy. Unions are facing a crisis as skilled labor becomes increasingly scarce, leading to discussions centered around setting minimum standards through union labor agreements for global projects. These agreements aim to ensure fair wages, proper skills development pipelines, increased women’s participation, occupational health and safety standards, and protection of migrant workers’ rights.
The Plight of Invisible Workers in the Industry
One year after the implementation of the Hong Kong Convention, a critical gap in the industry remains, particularly evident in India’s shipbreaking yards. While progress has been made in improving safety, formalizing employment, and environmental cleanup in these yards, downstream workers, predominantly women, who collect, sort, and recycle raw materials face dire conditions. Despite making up less than one percent of shipbreaking workers, these women form a majority of the downstream workforce in India. Organizations like the Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) are advocating for these women’s rights, demanding access to better-paid work, quality scrap materials, and formal recognition as workers with social security benefits.
In conclusion, as the shipbuilding industry experiences unprecedented growth, it is essential to address the challenges faced by workers, particularly the invisible downstream workers, to ensure a sustainable and ethical future for the industry. International cooperation and stringent enforcement of labor standards are crucial in safeguarding the rights and well-being of all workers across the maritime sector.
