In 2023, the International Transport Workers’ Federation reported a record number of abandoned vessels and unpaid seafarer wages. Inspectors recovered over US$57 million in wages owed to 1188 seafarers, emphasizing the impact on families back home. With 125 inspectors globally, the ITF monitors ships for exploitation and enforces agreements, highlighting ongoing challenges in the maritime industry.
Head of the ITF Seafarers’ Trust, Katie Higginbottom, discusses the importance of shore leave for seafarers’ well-being and the challenges they face in accessing it. The COVID-19 pandemic worsened these issues, raising concerns about the normalization of limited shore leave. The Trust advocates for seafarers’ rights and urges support in gathering data to address this critical issue in the maritime industry.
The Magna Carta for Seafarers bill, initially passed a decade ago, aims to protect the rights of 700,000 seafarers. Despite concerns over certain provisions, the bill has been revised and awaits President Marcos Jr.’s signature. Key provisions include free training, gender equality, and legal assistance. The PTGWO urges prompt approval to improve seafarers’ working conditions.
A magistrate in Colombo, Sri Lanka has ordered the master of a tanker responsible for a minor oil spill in the harbor to remain in the country for 30 days. The spill, traced back to the Indian-owned vessel Ark Prestige, has prompted authorities to seek compensation and take measures to contain and address the environmental impact.
A new maritime safety centre in Athens, supported by ABS, will equip seafarers for challenges in the evolving shipping industry. With a focus on workforce readiness, the Hellenic Ship Safety Center will use immersive training techniques and virtual reality to address emerging safety issues like dynamic fuels and cyber risks.
MARINA is launching online services for seafarers and stakeholders on July 1 to digitalize government transactions. QR codes will streamline processes in the maritime sector, enhancing efficiency. MARINA director Marc Anthony Pascua emphasized the importance of these services, including the Blockchain-Enabled Automatic Certification System (BEST) to prevent fraudulent documents and protect Filipino seafarers’ rights and welfare.
The IMO International Day for Women in Maritime 2024 celebrates progress in gender equality in the industry. Despite advancements, unconscious bias remains a challenge. Efforts to promote women in maritime roles are ongoing, with organizations like WISTA International and companies like Wallem leading the way. Continued commitment to inclusivity and equality is essential for a diverse and thriving maritime future.
Ron Salo, a Kabayan Party-list representative, is renowned in the maritime industry for championing the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers. Influenced by his Pangasinan roots and personal experiences, Salo advocates for seafarers’ rights. His dedication extends to migrant workers’ welfare, reflecting his commitment to creating a just society. Salo’s efforts highlight his passion for maritime education and social justice.
Maritime officials in Cameroon recently completed a national training course by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to enhance their skills in administering seafarer training and certification. The training focused on implementing the STCW Convention to improve safety and competence standards. This initiative, supported by government and private stakeholders, aims to boost the maritime sector in Cameroon and promote gender balance.
Data from the first quarter of 2024 reveals the harsh working conditions faced by seafarers, with increased risks due to geopolitical tensions. The International Bargaining Forum designated the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden as ‘Warlike’ zones after a fatal missile attack, while Somali piracy incidents resurged. SeafarerHelp saw a rise in seafarers seeking assistance for contractual issues and ABHDV, highlighting the urgent need for industry unity in protecting seafarers’ rights and welfare.
Recently adopted amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) will require immediate reporting by ship Masters involved in the loss of containers starting from 1 January 2026. The amendments aim to enhance navigational safety and environmental protection, ensuring prompt reporting of lost containers to nearby ships, coastal states, and the flag State. The World Shipping Council praised these regulations as a significant advancement in maritime safety.
Cases of seafarers being abandoned by shipowners without resources or support have become a global crisis, with many facing mental health issues. Maritime charity Stella Maris is providing assistance to those affected by this alarming trend. The International Maritime Organization reports a significant increase in abandonment cases, emphasizing the need for industry-wide action to enforce laws and hold negligent companies accountable. Deacon Joseph O’Donnell highlights the role of unlicensed agents in exploiting vulnerable seafarers.
According to a report by Africa Risk Compliance (ARC), two seafarers were kidnapped by West African pirates from a commercial vessel near Equatorial Guinea. The incident occurred on a general cargo ship in a region known for pirate activity. Details of the kidnapping and the seafarers’ condition are undisclosed. This highlights the need for increased maritime security in the area to protect seafarers from such dangers.
The maritime industry is struggling to upskill its workforce at sea amidst uncertainties about the future of ships. With the push for decarbonization and digitalization, there is a growing need for seafarers who are adaptable and well-trained in handling new technologies and green fuels. Industry experts stress the importance of investing in training programs to prepare the next generation of seafarers for the challenges ahead.
The satellite image shows the abandoned cargo ship Al-Maha in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, highlighting the issue of crew abandonment by shipowners. More than 2,000 seafarers on 150 ships were reported abandoned in the past year, raising concerns about their welfare and maritime safety. It is crucial for the international community to address this issue and ensure fair treatment for those who work at sea.
