June 25th marks a special day every year, dedicated to the industry’s most valuable asset—our seafarers. For the 2024 International Day of the Seafarer, SAFETY4SEA asked key stakeholders to share their messages and pay tribute to all the wonderful people working onboard and ashore who form the heart of shipping.
As IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez correctly pointed out, “without seafarers, there will be no shipping and therefore no trade.” Our special watch column highlights that the industry acknowledges and applauds seafarers’ work and, through several initiatives, strives to make them feel valued and appreciated.
In this regard, we have asked many experts to provide feedback on the following question:
Q: ‘On the occasion of this year’s Day of the Seafarers on June 25th, what is your key message to industry stakeholders and our seafarers?’
SAFETY4SEA would like to express gratitude to all maritime experts who participated in our special column. We appreciate their valuable feedback and commitment to raising awareness towards the important topics of our seafarers.
Read their key messages in alphabetical order:
Georgia Allen, Projects and Relationships Manager (ISWAN)
All crew need to be – and feel – safe at sea. Calls to ISWAN’s helplines SeafarerHelp and YachtCrewHelp show that when it comes to personal safety, some seafarers face more issues than others. Last year, women seafarers were more than three times as likely to call us about an issue of abuse, bullying, harassment, discrimination and violence than men, and more than twice as likely as men to report a mental health issue. And these issues are closely linked. We know it takes both seafarers and industry working together to create environments which are truly safe and inclusive for all. No one should ever have to go to work and be at risk of experiencing harm. This year ISWAN launches “Safe at sea…it takes all of us!” a sector-wide campaign to promote #CrewAllySHIP and encourage stakeholders to address the personal safety issues some seafarers experience.
Capt. Akshat Arora, Senior Risk Assessor, Thomas Miller P&I Ltd
As the maritime industry continues its progression towards a sustainable and efficient path, it is imperative that we, as industry stakeholders, ensure that our seafarers are equipped with the requisite skills, knowledge, and support they need. We must also recognise the vital role they play in global trade and the economy, and ensure they are treated fairly, receive the respect they deserve and enjoy good working conditions. To our seafarers, your health and wellbeing matter – make use of wellness resources and stay connected with ongoing professional development. Always remember to follow #SafetyTipsAtSea for an incident-free and safe working environment. Happy Day of the Seafarer!
Tom Bartošák-Harlow, Director of Communications, UK Chamber of Shipping
The importance of shipping to our economic prosperity and wellbeing cannot be overstated. We should be proud of the role we play in the world. None of what shipping contributes would be possible though without seafarers. Those working on board vessels face prolonged periods away from home, family and friends and we have seen recently how they often work in unstable and sometimes dangerous parts of the world. Despite these challenges, seafarers simply get on with their job. On behalf of everyone at the UK Chamber of Shipping I want to say a heartfelt thank you.
Walther Boon, Managing Director, MedAssist.online
A ships crew: together they sail their ships, tiny lit up hulls out at night on the vast open oceans. People from very different countries, religions and cultures working and living together as one, sharing their fate for the journey. They leave their families and loved ones behind. For many months on end. To feed the world, to bring energy and goods around our planet. Without them we would be cold, hungry and miserable. ‘Never is so much owed by so many to so few’ – from a different perspective. Thank you all the men and women who make the sea their place to work! Let’s make sure to bring all of them back Home – Safely.
Gerardo A. Borromeo, Vice-Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, PTC Holdings Corporation
As the maritime world transitions towards 2050, the ability to transform our seafarers into global maritime professionals (GMPs) with greater competency, digital proficiency, a consciousness for safety and a mindset to serve, is mission critical. We commit to teach, guide, mentor, and transform our GMPs through upskilling and re-skilling, as we lead them towards a more complex future, leaving no one behind. They are, after all, the heart and soul of shipping, moving the world in more ways than one.
Elisabeth Calbari (MSICP), Neuropsychologist | Neuroleadership Executive Consultant, Founder of Self Balance
How can the insights of neuroscience transform our approach to maritime operations? On this Seafarers Day, we spotlight the crucial role of understanding the human brain in enhancing the wellbeing and performance of seafarers. Neuroscience shows us that seafarers perform their best when they feel secure, appreciated, and emotionally supported. This not only boosts individual performance but also strengthens team dynamics and operational efficiency. It is imperative for industry stakeholders to invest in environments that prioritize psychological safety and mutual empathy. By doing so, we empower our seafarers to excel and thrive, paving the way for a more resilient and efficient maritime industry. What is your commitment to integrating these vital neuroscience insights into your practices?
Dr Maria Carrera, PhD, MSc, CPsychol, AFBPsS, Lecturer (Research/MSEA), World Maritime University
Seafarers’ mental health, a crucial determinant of their well-being and safety at sea, is often adversely affected by poor and hazardous work environments. These situations, along with precarious working conditions impact work effectiveness, satisfaction, and career intentions. The COVID-19 crisis has heightened the understanding that work and mental health are deeply intertwined in occupational settings. The responsibility for seafarers’ mental health and well-being is not just an individual one but a shared responsibility of the entire industry. My key message is a call to action, urging stakeholders, including researchers, policymakers, and companies to recognize health and psychological well-being as critical occupational risks, questioning and altering seafarers’ working and living standards and demonstrating recognition towards the seafarer’s profession.
Rob Gale, LLB (Hons) RMarTech, Head of Training, IMEC
I would like to share my continued gratitude to all of our seafarers that continue working so hard to ensure this industry keeps pace with consumer demand. As a former seafarer I am well aware how challenging life at sea can be and take reassurance that I and many others are not taking you for granted and through IMEC and our social partners we will continue to find ways to improve every aspect of your life at sea.
Dr. Kevin Ghirxi, Head of the Marine Safety Investigation Unit in Malta
My key message to our seafarers on this special day, is one of gratitude for your pivotal role in sustaining global seaborne trade in challenging conditions and away from your loved ones. I celebrate and honour your dedication. To the industry stakeholders, I urge support and fair treatment to seafarers, who contribute tirelessly to maritime safety, environmental protection, security, and global economic prosperity. Ensuring seafarers’ physical and mental well-being should be an industry value rather than a mere priority. On the International Day of the Seafarer, I wish all seafarers happiness, but I also pay tribute to those who were either injured or have lost their lives, serving at sea.
Sophia Grant, Director, Crew Health Programme, Thomas Miller P&I Ltd
I have worked at UK Club for over 32 years and in Crew Health for 20 years. So, I have to say Seafarer’s health, wellbeing and safety are my top priority, every day of the year. Not only physical safety but also the personal and psychological safety of everyone on board. At the UK Club We’re proud to co-fund with The Seafarers’ Charity Iswan’s campaign ISWAN’s Safe at Sea campaign. I believe, if we are to attract and retain skilled professionals, seafarers need access to appropriate healthcare and a harassment-free workplace, as well as good on-board safety protocols, well-maintained lifeboats, and protective gear that fits them. Ultimately everyone has a part to play in making life at sea safe for all. In a diverse modern maritime workforce, if #WeAllBelong on board, the industry must attend to everyone’s safety, especially underrepresented groups like women. It is crucial we maintain momentum to ensure the continued success and growth of these new projects in a nurturing environment. I urge all maritime professionals to actively participate to become ambassadors and allies for this key project.
Katie Higginbottom, Head of ITF Seafarers’ Trust
The shipping industry is constantly evolving with new technological and regulatory developments, but is the experience of living and working at sea improving? We have seen reductions in time spent in port with sharp turn-arounds and increased efficiency. Seafarers can find themselves working much longer hours than shore-based workers with very high levels of responsibility. It can be rewarding, but it’s a stressful environment far from the comforts of home. Whilst seafarers have a right to shore leave for their health and wellbeing we are concerned that this norm is being eroded. Research currently underway by the ITF Seafarers’ Trust shows that a significant number of seafarers are not getting any shore leave at all during the course of their contracts. We must uphold the right to shoreleave as a necessity not a luxury or an inconvenience.
Tim Hill, CEO / National Director, Stella Maris
On this Day of the Seafarer, we celebrate the vital role of seafarers in driving global trade and economies. People shouldn’t be regarded as commodities, but instead, the maritime industry must strive to put people first, providing rewarding career opportunities and training, enabling individuals to develop, thrive and reach their full potential. Seafarers must be treated with dignity, provided with good living and working conditions, with increased access to health, welfare, shore leave and vital connectivity whilst at sea. With an ever increasing demand for seafarers, if industry focuses on these aspects, then it can only improve recruiting and retention of its most prized asset. While some organizations excel in these areas, much work remains to be done to ensure all seafarers are supported and valued.
Geir Jørgensen, SVP Global Head of Loss Prevention in Skuld P&I Club
Dear seafarers and industry stakeholders: Entering the decarbonisation journey, the shipping industry will meet unknowns and many opportunities. The unknowns relate to new energy sources and how to work with them in the safest way possible. Opportunities are seen in working with state-of-the-art new technologies for energy efficiency, lowest possible emissions, and loss prevention. This can only be achieved by having competent and hard-working women and men onboard. Pay and treat them well; they are our guarantee for the success of our journey!Happy Day of the Seafarer.
Güven Kale, Chief Clinical Officer (CCO), Clinical Psychologist, MHSS
As a clinical psychologist and therapist working with seafarers, my key message to industry stakeholders and our seafarers on this year’s Day of the Seafarers is to recognize and prioritize mental health. Every day, we receive calls about issues and difficulties arising in the middle of the ocean. Seafarers face unique challenges and sacrifice much for us. It’s our responsibility to create a better environment for them, speak up against harassment, bullying, and discrimination, and provide access to necessary resources. By doing so, we ensure our seafarers remain resilient and healthy, both mentally and physically, as they continue their vital work.
Lars Lange, Secretary General, IUMI
The marine insurance industry works tirelessly to de-risk shipping operations. In doing so, it puts the welfare of seafarers at the top of its agenda and fully recognises and appreciates the skills, commitment and sacrifice that our global seafarers make to enable world seaborne trade to thrive. Significant changes are taking place in shipping and, working hand-in-hand with other stakeholders, marine underwriters will ensure they do all in their power to ensure those working at sea remain safe and well, always.
Capt. John Lloyd RD MNM MBA CMMar FNI, CEO The Nautical Institute
On this Day of the Seafarer, we at The Nautical Institute extend our gratitude to all the dedicated seafarers around the world who are the backbone of global trade and maritime safety. Staying true to our values, we remain dedicated in our mission to enhance the professionalism and competence of seafarers. Here at The Nautical Institute, we believe that together we can build a safer, more inclusive, and more sustainable future for all those who dedicate their lives to the sea and we are proud to represent your interests at the IMO and across the globe through our branch network. We send our best wishes to you, and your families who support you in your work, and we thank you for your service.
Namrata Nadkarni, Founder & CEO, Intent Communications Ltd.
I am thrilled that the IMO is making the link between safety and seafarers very visible this year and spotlighting the efforts that our crew take to keep our oceans protected, cargo safe and trade flowing. I believe that it is high time that we invest in the safety of our seafarers and make them feel valued. Whether this comes in the form of user-friendly training, mental health support, proper insurance, equipment specific training and (and perhaps most importantly), a culture where people are able to speak freely about problems they identify or ways to make life at sea better. We must create a psychologically safe work-space so that our seafarers can not just thrive but have a say in our sector. To the seafarers reading this, I want to make sure you are heard and I welcome you to reach out to me via LinkedIn so that I can do my best to continue supporting you.
Capt. VS Parani, Author, Golden Stripes- Leadership on the High Seas
‘Ten fingers’, an ode to seafarers. I join my ten fingers together regarding the hands-on work you do to keep ships and world trade running. Raise your hand if the job is risky. You go onboard with ten fingers; come back safely to your family with ten fingers. If your ten fingers are not enough – ask for a helping hand from your colleagues. Use your ten fingers wisely for good leadership. A finger can direct, a thumbs-up encourage, and a handshake connect. Take care of your ten fingers, as you must for your physical and mental health.
René Kofod-Olsen, CEO, V.Group
Day of the Seafarer 2024 is all about celebrating and honouring the effort that seafarers make every day to uphold safety of life at sea. Sadly, the last few years have seen an amplified risk environment for the seafarers who help to power the engine of global trade. It is harder than ever for them to do their jobs in this era of increased geopolitical tension. For V., seafarers are at the very heart of what we do. We are committed to celebrating and developing our talented crew pool, which now spans 44,000 men and women from all over the world. We must keep developing them with an eye on what comes next. Complexity in our industry is increasing, and the challenges of decarbonisation and digitalisation will need more training and upskilling to manage properly. We must do this while keeping seafarer safety at the front of our minds, and be uncompromising in the standards that we set across the whole maritime value chain.
Tore Morten Olsen, President, Maritime, Marlink
Marlink recognises the critical role that seafarers play in keeping maritime trade moving and we believe that the more we can keep seafarers in touch – with friends and family, with colleagues and co-workers – then the safer, smarter and in better health our industry will be. The dividends of this extend beyond broader social contact, to better mental health, enhanced training and connections to other fleet and team members that can support job roles and personal growth. In a world where networks are more plentiful and available than ever, there is no excuse for crews to be out of touch and Marlink is committed to helping seafarers and their employers get and stay connected safely.
Guy Platten, Secretary General, International Chamber of Shipping
On this year’s Day of the Seafarer, we honour the essential role seafarers play in sustaining global trade. They are the backbone of the maritime industry, ensuring the smooth flow of essential goods and commodities worldwide. Despite facing unprecedented challenges this year, including geopolitical tensions and threats in the Red Sea, seafarers continue to perform their duties with remarkable resilience and dedication. We were deeply concerned and saddened over the tragic loss of life of the seafarer on board the MV Tutor on Wednesday 12 June. Our thoughts are with the seafarer’s family and loved ones at this moment. It is unacceptable that innocent civilian seafarers continue to be attacked in this region. Over 90% of world trade is carried by sea, yet often seafarers’ efforts go unrecognised and unappreciated. We must acknowledge the critical contributions of seafarers and prioritise their health, safety, and well-being. So, on this Day of the Seafarer, I want to call on all nations to do all they can to protect our brave men and women as they do their jobs, so we can do ours.
Capt Yves Vandenborn, FNI, Head of Loss Prevention Asia-Pacific, The NorthStandard
With sustainability and decarbonisation rolling out massive changes within the industry, the focus should shift to attracting and training a quality workforce that is future ready. Recent media coverage has often highlighted negative issues like discrimination, criminalisation, and high-profile incidents such as the Suez Canal blockage, leaving out the good work that is being done by seafarers. Improving public perception is crucial, by emphasizing the vital contributions and resilience of seafarers, we can foster a more compelling message that seafaring is an important and respectable occupation. Enhancing our efforts in showcasing the positive aspects of a seafarer’s career goes a long way in appealing to the younger generation as well as communicating our sentiment to current seafarers and this is helpful in recruiting and retaining crew.
Carleen Lyden Walker, Co-Founder/CEO, Morgan Marketing & Communications& IMO Goodwill Maritime Ambassador
At the recent Posidonia, the statement “No shipping, no shopping” was augmented to reflect “No seafarers, no shipping, no shopping.” While it seems like it should be a given, it took the pandemic to underscore the vital role of the mariner and our need to ensure that they are operating in places of safety and well-being which will enhance their productivity and job satisfaction. Tools to achieve this must be deployed: communications, shorter contracts, equitable pay and other mechanisms to attract and retain mariners. When we look at the responsibilities of mariners, and the risks to our industry if they are not executing their responsibilities to optimal levels, the cost becomes minimal.
Sandra Welch, CEO of Seafarers Hospital Society
This year I’ve been greatly encouraged by the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) focus on the contributions seafarers have made to improving maritime safety. Seafarers are their own strongest advocates, and we should recognise and reward them for their role in protecting our supply chains and marine environment. However, a gap remains in translating their well-informed insights into meaningful industry operations. Such gaps hinder our industry’s ambitions of greater collaboration and progress. It is vital that we address this by creating robust feedback mechanisms — such as the Seafarer Hospital Society’s maritime-specific key performance indicator (KPI) toolkit for crew health and welfare — to understand where challenges arise and establish a baseline from which we can act.
Andrew Wright, Secretary General, The Mission to Seafarers
Seafarers often feel the world’s crises first and hardest. Recent years have evidenced this so strongly. First the Pandemic with its devastating consequences. The came the Ukraine War and now the Red Sea crisis. Global events and tensions suggest a dangerous turbulence that is here to stay. In this context it is particularly vital that seafarer well-being remains an absolute priority. Across maritime it is essential that we work together in building seafarer resilience, in enhancing communication with families back home and in planning the protection and support measures that may be needed across diverse scenarios. We must ensure that seafarers know they remain always first in our thinking.
The views presented are only those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of SAFETY4SEA and are for information sharing and discussion purposes only.