Do Not Criminalize Seafarers, Urges BIMCO president

In May 2023, Nikolaus Schues became president of the Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO), the largest international shipping association with over 2,000 members. He emphasized the critical role of seafarers in shipping, advocating for their recognition as ‘key workers’ to facilitate easier travel and access to transportation. Schues highlighted that seafarers should not face criminalization for incidents beyond their control, like drug smuggling on ships, and is working with various organizations to improve this situation.

He acknowledged ongoing threats to seafarers from piracy and terrorism, citing recent attacks in the Red Sea as a significant concern. Looking ahead, BIMCO anticipates a shortage of qualified seafarers in the coming decade due to retiring personnel and increasing vessel numbers. Improved salary incentives may attract more cadets to address this shortfall.

Schues also addressed the importance of education in adapting to new technologies in shipping, advocating for enhanced training in areas like renewable energy and digitalization. Regarding ship recycling in India, he pointed out that the upcoming Hong Kong Convention will transform global practices, benefitting India’s potential for green steel production from recycling efforts.

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