The number of seafarers abandoned at sea hit a record high in 2024, with 310 cases reported globally, marking a 118% increase from the previous year. This surge has been attributed to the growing shadow fleet, consisting of vessels carrying sanctioned oil with minimal oversight. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the situation, leading to a rise in abandonment cases and the use of “fake flags” by ships.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) have expressed alarm at the sharp increase in abandonment cases, emphasizing the urgent need for stronger measures to protect seafarers and address systemic issues in the industry. Abandonment occurs when shipowners fail to fulfill their responsibilities, leaving seafarers stranded without wages, repatriation, or basic necessities like food and medical care.
Experts, including Steven Jones from the Seafarers Happiness Index, have highlighted the need for a complete overhaul of the system to protect seafarers and hold abusive shipowners accountable. Despite guidelines developed by the IMO and ILO to tackle abandonment, the rise in cases over the past two years underscores the deep-rooted problems in the industry. Stricter enforcement of regulations and better coordination among stakeholders are essential to address the issue and prevent further harm to seafarers and the reputation of the shipping industry.
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