DG Shipping Warns Seafarers of Recruitment Fraud and Exploitation

The Directorate-General for Shipping has issued a warning to seafarers and their families regarding the rising number of fraudulent practices within the maritime recruitment industry. This warning comes in light of reports of Indian seafarers being abandoned, exploited, or fraudulently recruited abroad, leading to significant problems for seafarers, including neglect, detention, and exploitation on vessels with flags of convenience.

The Directorate emphasized the need for Indian seafarers to be cautious of fraudulent activities within the recruitment process and to ensure they are hired through recognized organizations to protect their rights and safety. The e-Migrate system has been introduced to monitor and control the recruitment of Indian seafarers, aiming to provide transparency and information for verification to immigration authorities.

Seafarers are encouraged to carefully review employment contracts and report any wage disputes or difficulties related to their work immediately to Indian authorities. The warning also alerts families of seafarers to be cautious of fraudulent schemes targeting them while their loved ones are at sea. Maritime associations, including the Goan Seamen Association of India, support the Directorate’s recommendation as a crucial step in protecting seafarers from exploitation and fraud, and advise those facing issues to seek assistance from trade unions, Indian diplomatic missions, or welfare organizations to uphold their rights under maritime law.

Source .