Estonian contractors accused of exploiting Ukrainian workers return to Turku shipyard under new company

The Turku shipyard Meyer Turku has terminated its contract with a newly established Estonian firm after discovering links to previous labour rights violations, the company’s communications director confirmed to Finnish broadcaster Yle on Wednesday.

The Estonian contractors, previously accused of underpaying and overworking Ukrainian employees, resurfaced under a new company named Levap, according to a report by Helsingin Sanomat. Meyer Turku severed ties with Levap this week after an internal investigation triggered by recent suspicions.

In autumn 2023, the shipyard had already cut contracts with two Estonian firms—Hodes and Bongo Marine—over similar exploitation allegations. Finnish news agency STT reported last year that Ukrainian workers employed by those companies had endured excessive working hours and received wages below legal standards.

Meyer Turku’s communications director, Anna Hakala, told Yle that the shipyard became aware of the new concerns last week and immediately launched an inquiry. The company has previously stated it actively monitors its subcontracting chain in cooperation with authorities.

Tags: labour rights, shipbuilding, Finland