The European Barge Union invites you to its annual Brussels event, bringing together European policymakers, industry representatives and stakeholders to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing inland waterway transport.

This year’s discussions will focus on the sector’s contribution to a competitive and sustainable European transport system, infrastructure resilience, EU policy priorities and the future leadership of EBU.

On 17 October 2026, The European Barge Union (EBU), the European Skippers Organisation (ESO) and the European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) signed a joint declaration committing to a zero-tolerance approach to violence and harassment in inland waterway transport. The declaration it calls for prevention, trusted reporting procedures, support for victims and a safe, respectful working environment for everyone in the sector.

Europe’s industries depend on reliable inland waterways. Yet ageing infrastructure, climate impacts and investment gaps threaten their performance. The inland waterway and ports sector calls for a robust, predictable and centrally managed European Union budget to modernise waterways, remove bottlenecks and secure competitive, sustainable supply chains across Europe.