Support Urged for Abandoned Seafarers Amid Global Crisis

Maritime charity Stella Maris is urging for support to address the concerning increase in abandoned seafarers worldwide. According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), there were 143 known cases of abandonment in 2023, with over 100 cases reported in 2024. These cases involve shipowners withholding wages, repatriation, and basic necessities like food and medical care from seafarers.

Stella Maris has labeled this situation a ‘humanitarian crisis,’ emphasizing the mental health issues faced by abandoned crew members. CEO Tim Hill emphasizes the need for the maritime industry to come together to enforce international laws, hold negligent companies accountable, and provide immediate assistance to those left stranded.

The charity has provided support to abandoned crews in various countries, including Kenya and Taiwan. Recent efforts in Taiwan involved assisting eight Indonesians stranded on a cargo ship, while in Kenya, crew members on an abandoned fishing vessel in Mombasa port were supported for over a year. The call to action extends to companies and organizations benefiting from the maritime industry to help address these critical issues and ensure the well-being of seafarers.

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