ITF Calls for Flag State Accountability in Seafarer Abandonment Cases

The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) has raised concerns about flag states hindering efforts to resolve abandonment cases in the latest seafarer abandonment findings presented to the International Maritime Organization. In 2024, a total of 312 cases involving 3,133 seafarers on 282 vessels were reported, with 58% of cases involving vessels flying flags of States that have ratified the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) and accepted the 2014 amendments. However, there were also cases involving flags that have not ratified MLC or had no identifiable flag, causing delays in resolving abandonment issues.

ITF highlighted instances where the flag of a vessel was withdrawn during the processing of an abandonment case, leaving the crew without essential support. Cases without valid insurance were also identified, with 73 vessels flying flags that should have been covered under MLC and the 2014 amendments. The organization emphasized the importance of flag states playing a crucial role in resolving abandonment cases and not accepting flag changes during active abandonment situations to prevent delays in payment of wages and entitlements.

Furthermore, ITF noted underhanded tactics from financial security providers engaging in lengthy negotiations over receipt and release forms, which are often complex and challenging for seafarers to understand, especially when abandoned and lacking access to legal advice. The organization stressed the need to simplify the obligations seafarers must meet to access financial security and acknowledged positive trends in how some flag and port States handle abandonment cases. However, there is still room for improvement in addressing abandonment issues effectively and efficiently.

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