This year’s International Day of the Seafarer focuses on the “Harassment-Free Ship” campaign, aiming to eliminate bullying in the maritime industry. The International Maritime Organization has introduced an interactive world map to guide seafarers in accessing support and reporting channels. Mandatory training on harassment prevention begins January 1 under the STCW Code.
On this International Day of the Seafarer, Steven Jones likens seafarers to Mandalorians, highlighting their resilience and commitment. With 1.9 million seafarers essential to global trade yet often overlooked, their sacrifices and challenges remain largely invisible. It’s vital to honor their contributions and advocate for their welfare in our interconnected world.
Intermanager is calling for an end to the criminalization of seafarers as the Day of the Seafarer approaches on June 25th. Captain Kuba Szymanski emphasizes that no one should face charges without substantial evidence, highlighting the urgent need for legal protections and safer working environments in the maritime industry.
Japanese shipping giant Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK) has acquired Kadmos, a maritime salary payments platform from Germany. This acquisition enhances NYK’s financial services, allowing it to support seafarers of various nationalities. The integration of Kadmos with NYK’s existing MarCoPay will broaden service offerings and improve financial support for seafarers worldwide.
Seafarers operating ferries from Patras and Igoumenitsa began a 24-hour strike at 6 a.m. Sunday, protesting government neglect over understaffing issues. The union warns of escalating actions if demands for better working conditions are unmet. Recent court rulings declaring the strike illegal highlight a pivotal moment in Greece’s labor history.
Seafarers under the International Bargaining Forum (IBF) will receive a 5% salary increase over two years following negotiations in Singapore. Effective January 1, 2026, a 3.5% raise will be implemented, with an additional 1.5% increase on January 1, 2027, impacting around 400,000 seafarers across 11,000 vessels.
Seafarers on ferries from Patras and Igoumenitsa will strike for 48 hours on June 3-4, citing chronic understaffing that jeopardizes safety and worsens working conditions. The Panhellenic Maritime Federation (PNO) criticized the government and employers for failing to address crew shortages, emphasizing the urgent need for improved staffing and working conditions.
The International Bargaining Forum (IBF), comprising the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG), has secured a significant pay agreement for over 250,000 seafarers. The new terms include a 3.5% wage increase in 2026 and 1.5% in 2027, enhancing compensation for maritime workers globally.
The shipping industry is undergoing transformative changes due to decarbonisation and digitalisation, significantly impacting seafarers. As the demand for skilled workers grows, the relevance of the STCW Convention is questioned. Over 800,000 seafarers need upskilling, highlighting the urgency for flexible training and innovative methods to ensure safety and adaptability.
Over 200 seafarers aboard 15 ships off Yemen’s coast are preparing to resume operations following a ceasefire with the Houthis. However, risks remain high as previous attacks have targeted non-Israeli vessels. Despite U.S. halting airstrikes, safety for commercial shipping is still uncertain, leaving many vessels stranded in limbo.
Over 200 seafarers aboard 15 ships near Yemen’s Ras Isa port are preparing to leave for the U.S. following a ceasefire with the Houthi militia. Despite this, threats to shipping persist. The Houthis’ intentions to attack Israeli assets raise concerns over broader maritime safety, complicating the fragile peace.
The World Maritime University invites all seafarers employed on commercial ships since 2013 to participate in a work-life balance survey. This initiative, in collaboration with the Officers’ Unions of International Seamen, aims to gather insights on work-related issues and enhance the maritime community. Participation is anonymous and takes about 15 minutes.
Marlow Navigation has launched a 24/7 emotional support helpline for seafarers, in partnership with ISWAN. This multilingual service offers a confidential space for seafarers to address stress and personal challenges. Anonymized data from the helpline will help improve mental health support, emphasizing Marlow’s commitment to crew wellbeing.
Intercargo has praised the International Labor Organization for recognizing seafarers as essential workers under the Maritime Labor Convention. This landmark decision aims to enhance seafarers’ rights, ensuring fair treatment and access to vital resources. Chairman John Xylas highlights the importance of this acknowledgment in addressing challenges faced during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Shipowners have agreed to increase pay for seafarers in a significant deal after intense negotiations at the ILO’s headquarters in Geneva. This landmark agreement, one of the largest in recent history, was achieved through a shift in negotiating tactics. The success highlights the importance of collaboration in improving seafarers’ welfare and rights.
