Cases of crew abandonment reached a new alarming high last year, more than doubling from the record levels of 2023. Data from the International Maritime Organization revealed 310 cases of crew abandonment in 2024, a significant increase of 118% from the previous year. Experts attribute this rise to the growth of the shadow fleet, a term used to describe vessels that engage in illegal or unethical practices.
The surge in crew abandonment incidents has been linked to various factors, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the expansion of the dark fleet. The sharp increase in cases over the past decade is a cause for concern, with 2024’s figures nearly 2,000% higher than those reported ten years ago. The International Maritime Organization and the International Labour Organization have expressed alarm at the escalating trend, calling for urgent action to address the issue.
Industry experts, such as Steven Jones from the Seafarers Happiness Index and Steve Trowsdale from the International Transport Workers’ Federation, have highlighted the need for a comprehensive overhaul to protect seafarers and hold accountable those responsible for crew abandonment. Guidelines on addressing crew abandonment were established in late 2022 by a joint ILO and IMO working group. These guidelines outline procedures for states to follow when shipowners fail to fulfill their obligations towards seafarers, including repatriation, wages, and essential needs. Despite these efforts, the continued rise in crew abandonment cases underscores the persistent challenges in combating this issue.
