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It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Pavel Krenk, a revered leader in the global trade union community and long-serving chairman of the Czech Trade Union of Seafarers, who left us on 24 June 2024 at the age of 64. His untimely departure followed a brief but courageous battle with illness.
Krenk's journey in maritime began at the Nautical Academy in Kaliningrad, where he graduated before embarking on a career as a deck officer with Czechoslovak Ocean Shipping.
Pavel was instrumental in the foundation of the free trade unions movement in the Czech Republic post-1989, demonstrating a remarkable ability to unify and lead far beyond the decks of ships.
His leadership also came to the fore when he established and built of the Trade Union of Czech Seafarers and helped design the Czech and Moravian Confederation of Trade Unions. His relentless dedication has been acknowledged by his peers.
Stephen Cotton, ITF General Secretary, paid tribute to Krenk: "Pavel's was a trailblazer who broke new ground in trade unionism, in the maritime sector and beyond. His passing is a significant loss to the global trade union family."
ITF President Paddy Crumlin also expressed his sorrow, saying: "Pavel Krenk’s visionary work and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on the trade union movement in his country. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to work with him."
We extend our deepest condolences to Pavel's family, friends, and colleagues. His memory will live on in our ongoing efforts to advance transport workers' rights worldwide.
Vale, Pavel Krenk