Third-country drivers working in the European Union deserve full respect and support.
IRU reiterates its strong support for third-country truck drivers following protests over the past few days in several EU countries, including France, the Netherlands and Italy. These protests underscore ongoing concerns over the mistreatment and exploitation of third-country drivers by certain companies.
IRU Director of EU Advocacy Raluca Marian said, “The ongoing protests highlight the urgent need for all EU employers to ensure fair treatment of third-country drivers. They are essential to the EU road transport sector, and they must be treated with the same respect, fairness and dignity as their EU counterparts.”
As in previous cases, IRU calls for strict adherence to the rule of law and urges enforcement authorities to take decisive action where illegal practices of EU companies are demonstrated. The transport industry must be free from exploitative practices that threaten the livelihoods of drivers and undermine the integrity of the sector.
As Europe continues to face a serious shortage of drivers, third-country drivers remain a vital part of the solution. It is imperative that they are integrated into the industry with dignity. Ensuring fair conditions for all drivers all over Europe, including third-country nationals, is crucial for a sustainable, efficient and thriving transport sector.
IRU remains committed to working closely with the European Commission, trade unions and enforcement authorities across Europe to ensure that all drivers are treated with respect, in full compliance with EU regulations.