The Mission to Seafarers partners with IKEA Supply AG in a three-year collaboration to promote seafarer welfare. Through training programs and increased awareness, IKEA aims to support seafarers in their supply chain. This initiative, born out of the pandemic shore leave crisis, sets a standard for corporate responsibility and highlights the importance of seafarer welfare in sustaining global trade.
On International Seafarers Day, IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez pays tribute to the essential role of seafarers in global trade. Despite facing challenges such as piracy and conflict, seafarers are the lifeline of maritime transport. The IMO calls for the release of the Galaxy Guide crew detained in the Red Sea. Join the campaign to share safety tips at sea.
Fraudsters are preying on family members of seafarers in the Merchant Navy, exploiting the challenges faced by those at sea. By posing as representatives of shipping companies, scammers deceive families into sharing personal information or sending money. Targets receive urgent requests for financial help or personal details, causing emotional and financial distress. Vigilance and verification are crucial to avoid falling victim to these scams.
Indian shipping officials have raised concerns about deceitful recruiters failing to report seafarers abandoned and arrested in foreign ports. The directorate general of shipping cited cases in countries like Iran, UAE, and Malaysia. Over 200 cases since 2020 involve seafarers placed on different ships than agreed. This trend leaves seafarers vulnerable, highlighting the need for ethical recruitment practices to protect their rights.
The Goan Seamen Association of India (GSAI) advocates for seafarers’ rights, urging shipping companies to prioritize safety measures. Commissioner of NRI Affairs, Adv Narendra Sawaikar, reassured seafarers at the ‘Seafarers Day’ celebration in Margao. MLA Altone D’Costa promised to address seafarers’ concerns in the Assembly. GSAI President Frank Viegas emphasized the need for vigilance and proactive safety measures at sea.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is implementing new measures to safeguard Filipino seafarers following recent attacks by Houthi rebels. Ships targeted in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, like the Galaxy Leader and True Confidence, will be off-limits. DMW Secretary Cacdac stresses the need for shipowners to prioritize seafarers’ safety and provide adequate notification for high-risk routes.
Qatar Airways celebrated the ‘Day of the Seafarer’ at the Mariner Lounge in Hamad International Airport with marine industry leaders. The event showcased the airline’s commitment to appreciating seafarers’ contributions. Representatives from Carnival Corporation, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, and Royal Caribbean Group came together to honor the vital role of seafarers. Qatar Airways demonstrated its dedication to supporting these unsung heroes.
TOBC and WSP Maritime Training Center have joined forces to offer a new online course, ‘Safety Enablers,’ to seafarers in the Philippines for free. This initiative aims to enhance safety practices within the shipping industry by focusing on achieving success safely. By empowering seafarers with essential skills, the course promotes a culture of safety and responsibility at sea.
The International Day of the Seafarer, celebrated on June 25, shines a light on the importance of safety at sea. The International Maritime Organization launched a campaign to recognize seafarers’ role in maintaining a secure maritime environment. IMO Secretary-General Dominguez praised seafarers for their dedication and urged them to share safety tips and practices to enhance maritime safety.
Seaspan’s team in Sri Lanka partnered with the Arunodhaya Foundation for International Seafarers’ Day, supporting children with mental and physical challenges. They provided essentials, entertainment, and a meal, showcasing their commitment to community impact. Ceyline Shipping Limited, Seaspan’s recruitment partner, has been instrumental in providing top maritime personnel for nearly two decades. This initiative reflects Seaspan’s dedication to making a positive difference.
Indian seafarers are struggling to compete with those from other developing countries due to a lack of guidance and investment from Indian shipping companies, experts say. Despite India’s significant share in the global workforce, candidates from countries like Ukraine, Russia, and the Philippines are gaining ground. Efforts to address these challenges were emphasized on World Seafarers Day.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has confirmed the safety of all 27 Filipino crew members aboard the MV Transworld Navigator after an attack by Houthi rebels. Secretary Hans Cacdac stated that the seafarers are now out of the high-risk area and uninjured. Plans for repatriation are in place, emphasizing the importance of reuniting the crew with their families.
Dr. Odunayo Ani, President of WISTA, thanked Nigerian seafarers for their vital role in global trade on the Day of the Seafarer 2024. Emphasizing safety, Dr. Ani commended seafarers for ensuring smooth maritime operations. She praised their dedication in various activities like fishing and transportation. The annual observance honors seafarers’ hard work and contributions to the global economy.
Seafarers are voicing concerns about the mental health implications of decarbonisation and the fear of being blamed if things go wrong. A survey by ISWAN and the Shipowners’ Club reveals the hidden costs of the green transition, showing a significant impact on job satisfaction. The industry must address these issues and involve seafarers in the transition towards zero carbon.
Seventy-eight Filipino seafarers have refused sailing through high-risk areas like the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea due to increased attacks. The Department of Migrant Workers is working with stakeholders to ensure compliance with this right. Seafarers who opt out will be repatriated, emphasizing their safety and protection from discrimination. Recent events highlight the dangers faced by these seafarers.
