ISWAN Reports Rise in Seafarer Abuse and Discrimination in Maritime Industry

The International Seafarers’ Welfare & Assistance Network (ISWAN) reported a rise in the number of seafarers seeking help due to experiencing violence, bullying, and discrimination while working on board ships. The helpline run by ISWAN received increased calls during the first six months of the year from crew members who had been abandoned by shipowners and were facing mental health concerns and abuse at work. Complaints included being forced to work excessively long hours and being denied necessary medical care.

The charity highlighted ongoing issues within the industry, such as seafarers falling victim to fake recruitment agencies, as well as instances of bullying, harassment, and discrimination based on nationality or religion. Reports of abuse, violence, and discrimination increased by 28% compared to the previous year, with 92 calls received in the first half of the year. Many callers mentioned experiencing bullying by senior officers and being subjected to harsh working conditions.

ISWAN assisted 227 seafarers from 25 cases of abandonment, a significant increase from the previous year. These seafarers had not been paid for months and lacked essential provisions like drinking water. Calls related to mental health concerns also rose by 17%, with 109 calls in the first six months, including cases where seafarers expressed thoughts of suicide. ISWAN’s chief executive, Simon Grainge, emphasized the importance of addressing welfare challenges faced by seafarers amidst the ongoing crises in the maritime sector.

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