Mikki Koskinen has been elected as the new president of the European Community Shipowners’ Associations (ECSA), marking a significant leadership change for the organisation. This pivotal role will commence on January 1, 2026, and Koskinen will serve a two-year term.
- Koskinen, who hails from Finland, takes over from Karin Orsel, who has led ECSA since January 2024. Alongside him, Nikolas Veniamis from Greece has been appointed as the new Vice-President.
Koskinen, who hails from Finland, takes over from Karin Orsel, who has led ECSA since January 2024. Alongside him, Nikolas Veniamis from Greece has been appointed as the new Vice-President.
In his remarks following the election, Koskinen highlighted the long-standing importance of ECSA as a strategic partner to European institutions. He noted that over the past sixty years, ECSA has championed policies that enhance the competitiveness of European shipping while advocating for sustainability and innovation.
“Today’s global challenges have made the strategic role of European shipping more important than ever,” Koskinen stated. He stressed that “European shipping is a cornerstone of Europe’s food, energy and supply chain security,” reflecting on the sector’s vital contributions to the continent.
Koskinen described the maritime industry as a success story for Europe, asserting that it has positioned the continent as a global leader in international supply chains. However, he also warned of the significant challenges ahead, including the energy transition, geopolitical uncertainties, and rising protectionism. “These challenges demand bold leadership and collective action,” he remarked.
He reiterated the necessity for a unified voice within the sector, stating, “We need all hands on deck. We cannot have a secure Europe without a competitive shipping.” This call to action resonates particularly well with Cyprus, where shipping plays a crucial role in trade, energy security, and economic activity.
Cyprus-based shipowners have historically been active within ECSA, contributing to crucial discussions regarding decarbonisation, regulatory competitiveness, and the EU’s maritime strategy amidst heightened geopolitical tensions. Veniamis also emphasised the strategic importance of the shipping sector, noting that ECSA represents an industry critical to Europe’s prosperity.
With 76 per cent of the EU’s external trade transported by sea, Veniamis underscored that European shipping is indeed a strategic asset for the continent. He acknowledged the need to maintain global competitiveness, saying, “It is essential to continue the constructive dialogue and cooperation with EU policymakers and stakeholders.”
As he steps into his role as Vice-President, Veniamis expressed eagerness to collaborate with Koskinen and ECSA members, aiming to harness the potential of European shipping for the benefit of Europe.
Koskinen brings extensive experience to his new position, having served as the Managing Director of ESL Shipping Oy since 2013. His previous roles include Managing Director at Meriaura Oy and board member of the International Chamber of Shipping. He also chaired the Finnish Shipowners’ Association from 2021 to 2023.
Veniamis, CEO of Golden Union Shipping Company S.A. and Starboard Shipping and Trading, holds significant positions within various maritime organisations. He has been part of the ECSA Board since 2011 and is well-versed in the complexities of the maritime landscape.
