Challenging Working Conditions for Seafarers Highlighted in Q1 2024 Data

Data from the first quarter of 2024 from the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network’s (ISWAN) helpline SeafarerHelp highlights the challenging working conditions that many seafarers are currently facing. The dangers of working at sea gained increased attention in mainstream media headlines during this period, with the International Bargaining Forum (IBF) designating the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden as ‘Warlike’ zones after three seafarers were killed in a missile attack by Houthi rebels. Additionally, the industry had to navigate a resurgence of Somali piracy incidents, leading to rapid changes in trade routes and security protocols.

Against this backdrop of geopolitical risks, data from SeafarerHelp revealed a significant increase in seafarers seeking assistance for various contractual issues. Between January and March 2024, ISWAN observed a rise in the number of seafarers contacting SeafarerHelp regarding repatriation difficulties, unpaid wages, unfair dismissal, and abandonment. The helpline received 63 contacts related to repatriation, marking a 57.5% increase from the same period in 2023, with 125 seafarers receiving assistance.

The first quarter of 2024 also witnessed a troubling uptick in seafarers reaching out to SeafarerHelp for support in dealing with abuse, bullying, harassment, discrimination, or violence (ABHDV) experienced at sea. With 54 contacts related to ABHDV during this period, representing a 63.6% increase from the previous year, ISWAN emphasized the need for urgent action to address these issues and safeguard the wellbeing of seafarers. Simon Grainge, Chief Executive of ISWAN, stressed the importance of industry unity in protecting seafarers’ rights and welfare amidst the exceptional stresses faced by the shipping sector.

Source .