The background report prepared by the International Labour Organization (ILO) for the technical meeting highlights the characteristics of the sector and its crucial role in transport and employment. It also gives a general overview of the future possibilities of the sector regarding governance, social dialogue, sustainable enterprises, employment sustainability, fundamental principles and rights at work, minimum requirements for work on board, conditions of service, safety, health, and welfare, social protection, and enforcement.

Delegates emphasised the importance of applying fundamental labour rights and existing international conventions to all inland navigation workers.

National and transnational laws and regulations must be effectively implemented.

At the same time, parties agreed on the need to create an enabling environment for sustainable businesses in the sector to increase productivity, create quality jobs, and improve decent work opportunities, including through better access to national funding.

Finally, social partners and Governments emphasised that universal and adequate social protection systems should be supported by social dialogue and the formalisation of companies encouraged.