Female Seafarers Face Shocking Levels of Abuse and Harassment.: Study

A recent study has uncovered concerning levels of physical and verbal aggression, as well as sexual harassment, towards women seafarers. The research highlights the need for the maritime industry to provide better information on reporting procedures for such issues. According to the study, women seafarers experience twice as much harassment as their male counterparts, with a significant percentage reporting incidents of sexual harassment during their careers.

Published in the International Maritime Health journal, the study emphasizes that workplace aggression experienced by seafarers surpasses that of workers on land, increasing the risks of anxiety, depression, and burnout among maritime professionals. Conducted by leading French universities, the research gathered feedback from nearly 800 seafarers undergoing their annual medical examinations, revealing a high prevalence of harassment and traumatic incidents at sea.

The report recommends increased efforts by the industry and public authorities to raise awareness among seafarers about reporting procedures for workplace harassment. It also stresses the importance of training as a primary prevention method, highlighting the role of leadership in protecting against harassment. The study urges the implementation of programs to help seafarers recognize and address the risks posed by bullying and assault in the workplace.

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