Sascha Meijer elected General Secretary of maritime trade union Nautilus International

Maritime trade union Nautilus International has announced the election of Sascha Meijer as its new General Secretary, effective immediately. Ms Meijer becomes the leader of one of the world's foremost and most influential unions for maritime professionals, representing members across the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Switzerland. 

Sascha Meijer (pictured, photo by Brad Wakefield) takes over office from Mark Dickinson, who has led Nautilus International for 17 years, carrying out  tireless work for the interest of maritime maritime professionals.  

Ms Meijer, who for the last two years served as Nautilus’s Assistant General Secretary, trained as a lawyer and brings 26 years of trade union experience and a deep commitment to the rights and welfare of working people.  She has been deeply involved in the maritime industry for the past 11 years, with national and international negotiations and representation. She also represents the maritime unions within the EU in the social dialogue with the European Commission and European shipowners. 

 In her first statement as General Secretary, Ms Meijer set out a vision centred on unity — across the union’s three national branches, and an agenda for better jobs across the breadth of the maritime industry: 
 

“Nautilus International is one union, with one purpose: to stand alongside our members. Maritime professionals are key workers, and strong national fleets are vital for our countries’ autonomy and security. Yet more needs to be done to ensure good jobs, attractive jobs, with a better work-life balance. The maritime industry needs to be socially competitive to recruit and retain the talent, women and men, that the industry so urgently needs.  
 

Under Ms Meijer’s leadership, Nautilus International will continue its active engagement at the IMO and the International Labour Organization (ILO).  

Ms Meijer said: “The rules that govern life at sea are written at an international level. We intend to remain in those rooms, making the case for seafarers every step of the way.”  

Ms Meijer also addressed the situation facing members operating in and around the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz and those affected by the ongoing conflict involving Iran — an area of acute concern for the international maritime community. 
 

Nautilus International is actively monitoring developments and providing support to affected members, including guidance on contractual rights, liaison with shipowners, and close cooperation with relevant governmental, flag state and international bodies. 
 

Ms Meijer said: “We are acutely aware of the risks facing our members in some of the most dangerous waters in the world right now. Their safety is our absolute priority, and we will not stop working on their behalf for as long as the situation demands it.” 

Ms Meijer will also be responsible for the Nautilus Welfare Fund, including its welfare and care facility for retired maritime professionals, Mariners’ Park, in Wallasey on the banks of the river Mersey.