In a recent interview, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez stressed the urgent need for better living and working conditions for seafarers. He urged Greek shipowners, who control nearly 20% of global tonnage, to invest in sustainability and technology, emphasizing the importance of workforce welfare, training, and mental health support.
The latest Seafarers Happiness Index (SHI) report shows a slight increase in seafarers’ wellbeing, with a happiness score of 7.26 in Q4 2025, up from 7.05. However, significant pressures remain, including geopolitical issues and excessive workloads. Experts stress the need for continued support to ensure maritime workforce sustainability.
As World Maritime Day nears, Captain Kuba Szymanski of InterManager calls for maritime leaders to reflect on their practices to genuinely improve seafarers’ quality of life. Emphasizing “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity,” he urges managers to prioritize gender equality, social rights, and safety standards to attract future maritime talent.
The Mission to Seafarers has launched OceanCare, a global welfare initiative in partnership with Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, aimed at supporting seafarers’ wellbeing. This program offers a confidential listening service led by trained professionals, addressing mental health, work-related stress, and personal challenges, fostering a culture of openness and support within the fleet.
