The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) has urgently called for government action to protect seafarers amid rising dangers in the Persian Gulf and surrounding waters. ITF General Secretary Stephen Cotton emphasized that immediate, practical measures are necessary to ensure the safety and dignity of seafarers facing attacks and severe conditions.
In 2025, seafarer abandonment surged to 6,223 cases across 410 ships, a 31% increase from the previous year, as per the ITF. Indian seafarers were hit hardest, with 1,125 cases. The ITF demands stricter regulations on ship ownership and calls for unified action to tackle this ongoing crisis.
The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) campaigns against flags of convenience (FOCs) to protect seafarers’ rights. FOC vessels often evade strict labor laws, compromising crew safety and wages. ITF inspectors monitor compliance with international standards, providing vital support to seafarers and advocating for stronger maritime regulations globally.
The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) is calling on UAE maritime authorities to assist 19 stranded seafarers in the Persian Gulf. These crew members, primarily from India, face dire conditions aboard an oil tanker due to fake contracts and lack of insurance, having been trapped for 15 months beyond the Maritime Labour Convention’s limits.
A joint report from the ITF Seafarers’ Trust and the World Maritime University reveals troubling trends in seafarers’ shore leave. Over a quarter report no shore leave during contracts averaging 6.6 months, while one-third go ashore only once or twice. Urgent action is needed to prioritize crew well-being and improve retention.
In 2025, over 2,280 seafarers were abandoned on 222 vessels, reflecting a 30% rise from the previous year. The International Transport Workers’ Federation reported $13.1 million in unpaid wages, highlighting severe human rights violations. The Gulf states and Europe face criticism for their inaction, as nearly 75% of abandoned vessels are registered under Flags of Convenience.
In 2025, over 2,280 seafarers were abandoned on 222 vessels, a 30% rise from the previous year, according to the ITF. Facing dire conditions, they lack pay, food, and medical aid, with unpaid wages reaching $13.1 million. The situation is particularly severe in the Arab World and Europe.
The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) has urged the Joint Negotiation Group to classify the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman as warlike operating zones. This would allow seafarers to refuse dangerous passage, prioritizing safety. Rising military presence and incidents of drone attacks highlight the escalating risks faced by maritime crews.
Cases of vessel abandonment have surged by 33%, with the ITF reporting 158 incidents by May 2024. Over 1,500 seafarers are affected, enduring delays in pay, food, and port access. ITF General Secretary Stephen Cotton calls for urgent reforms, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency in the maritime industry.
The Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) recently met with the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) to bolster protections for maritime workers. A key focus was recovering $8.5 million in unpaid wages by 2024, significantly up from $5.6 million last year, showcasing AMP’s commitment to enhancing seafarer welfare and compliance.
The crew of the offshore support vessel Star Apollo, stranded in Indonesia since October 2024, is facing unpaid wages and poor living conditions. With the help of the ITF, they are seeking assistance to return to India. The escalating issue of seafarer abandonment highlights the need for better enforcement of maritime regulations to protect vulnerable crew members.
The ITF has praised the recent updates to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) that officially recognize seafarers as ‘key workers’ by the International Labour Organization (ILO). The amendments aim to improve the working and living conditions of seafarers, providing better protections and support in crisis situations, particularly in response to challenges faced during the Covid-19 pandemic.
John Canias, a former seafarer, stood up for his rights in 1998 when asked to sign lower-wage contracts. Despite being blacklisted by his manning agency, he found a new purpose working with the ITF in 2001. Now a Maritime Operations Coordinator, he advocates for seafarers’ rights worldwide, emphasizing the importance of unions in times of need.
On March 7, 2025, the ITF launched the “Women at Sea” website to empower women in the maritime industry. The initiative aims to create a global network for female seafarers while promoting ITF-affiliated trade unions. During discussions, experts emphasized inclusivity and the necessity of addressing gender-related challenges in maritime roles.
The ITF and MARINA have signed an MoU to enhance mental health training for Filipino seafarers. This partnership will improve knowledge and skills in mental health and wellbeing for maritime faculties. Collaborative research projects and initiatives will focus on occupational health and safety within the Philippine maritime sector.
