The European Commission has adopted Implementing Decision (EU) 2026/1179, granting European Union recognition to qualification certificates, service record books and logbooks issued by Serbia in inland waterway transport (IWT). 

The decision was adopted on 1 June 2026 and published in the Official Journal of the European Union on 3 June 2026. It will enter into force on 23 June 2026, meaning that Serbian documents issued under the recognised framework will be accepted on European Union inland waters from that date. 

This is a practical development for crew mobility and professional recognition in the sector. Serbian crew members, previously mainly able to operate on the Danube, will now also be able to sail on the Rhine and connected waterways, provided their documents meet the conditions set out in the decision.

The recognition follows an assessment by the European Commission of the Serbian certification system under Directive (EU) 2017/2397 on the recognition of professional qualifications in inland navigation. The assessment covered, among other elements, examinations, the issuing of service record books, logbooks and qualification certificates, medical examinations, the validation of navigation time and related administrative procedures.

Beyond recognition: what this means for the workforce

From the perspective of the European IWT Platform and its Social and Education Committee, this recognition is an important step towards more aligned professional qualification systems and improved crew mobility in Europe.

By allowing future examinations under the recognised route to follow the framework of the Professional Qualifications Directive, the decision gives further clarity to education and training providers preparing new professionals for the sector.

It may also have practical labour-market effects. In the Rhine region, it could help ease pressure caused by staff shortages by allowing additional qualified crew members to enter the market. At the same time, the possible impact on the Danube region should be monitored, as increased mobility may also shift existing personnel needs.

For the Platform and its Social and Education Committee, the decision confirms that the future of inland navigation depends not only on infrastructure, vessels and innovation, but also on skilled people. Clear standards, reliable recognition procedures and well-functioning mobility are essential for a connected and resilient European IWT sector.

Authors: The Social & Education Committee; Fulvio Esposito