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.
In the week from 06 – 12 Jan 2025, the Indian maritime sector is abuzz with initiatives aimed at sustainability and technological advancement. However, seafarers face rising challenges, such as crew abandonment and unpaid wages. Addressing these issues is crucial for fostering a thriving maritime industry that supports both innovation and the welfare of its workforce.
The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) reports that Indian seafarers are the most abandoned nationality, with 411 cases recorded so far in 2024. Two vessels in the UAE have all-Indian crew members abandoned in extreme conditions, highlighting the urgent need for attention to the plight of seafarers worldwide.
