The “Delivering on Seafarers’ Rights 2025 Progress Report,” recently published by the Sustainable Shipping Initiative (SSI) and the Institute for Human Rights and Business (IHRB), examines how clearly defined responsibilities affect welfare outcomes in the maritime industry. Analyzing data from 710 companies and over 13,000 vessels, the report emphasizes the critical link between seafarer welfare, safety, and operational resilience. It highlights the risks of fatigue, isolation, and psychological stress on shipping safety.
Key findings indicate that better outcomes correlate with transparency in expectations and accountability, particularly regarding safe manning and medical support. The report also notes that charterers and cargo owners play a significant role in enhancing welfare when their expectations align with commercial relationships. However, weaknesses in responsibilities, such as onboard connectivity and family support, persist, revealing a gap between policy commitments and the actual experiences of seafarers.
Additionally, illegal recruitment fees pose systemic risks, while enforcement challenges maintain exploitative practices. The report advocates for collective industry action to address these issues. Ellie Besley-Gould of SSI asserts that integrating welfare into commercial decision-making is crucial, and Francesca Fairbairn of IHRB emphasizes ongoing efforts to improve seafarer rights through collaboration and action.
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