Internet connectivity is a necessary pathway to wellness at sea, as revealed by the 2023 SEAFiT Crew Survey. As a follow up on this key finding, SAFETY4SEA has been asked by several stakeholders and participants to test the waters, moving forward seeking ways to effect change in way of making internet connectivity of adequate quality and bandwidth a prerequisite mandatory provision for seafarers onboard ships. In that regard, we are pleased to announce the launch of the SAFETY4SEA petition asking industry stakeholders to join our cause for free Internet at sea!
The 2023 SEAFiT Crew Survey brought to the surface ongoing complaints about inadequate Internet connectivity. Progress on connectivity isn’t happening fast enough to fully provide adequate and free bandwidth onboard. There are still vessels without Internet access. There are still vessels that have limited access to Internet. There are still vessels that have Internet which is either low-speed or extremely costly. Having a seafarer spending half or more of his/her monthly wage in connectivity costs, is certainly not the way to move forward in the 21st century.
MLC Amendments make no reference to Internet onboard
As per the Maritime Labour Convention, Reg 3.2.1, each Flag Administration should ensure ships flying its flag should ‘’serve food and drinking water of appropriate quality, nutritional value and quantity’’ and as per Reg 3.2.2 ‘’Seafarers on board a ship shall be provided with food free of charge during the period of engagement.’’
Latest MLC amendments in August 2022, highlighted the importance of considering seafarers’ religious requirements, cultural practices, and nutritional value when providing food and drinking water. However, latest updates of the Convention did not include a reference to internet access. Why not examine internet connectivity from a regulatory standpoint and establish a new benchmark?
Internet connectivity as a basic need for seafarers
Food and drinking water are generally considered fundamental human needs, essential for survival and well-being. What is more, while they are commonly acknowledged as basic human needs, international human rights instruments also recognize the importance of ensuring these needs are met as part of broader rights to health, life, and an adequate standard of living. In particular, as per Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, ‘‘Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary social services’’. Reference about ensuring food and drinking water is also made to UN Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) 3 and 6 accordingly.
As per the aforementioned basic human needs, research has shown that internet is vital for seafarers’ well-being; not only they can stay connected with their loved ones, but they can also engage in a way of beneficial other activities, such as continuous learning and professional development. Internet access offers entertainment options, such as movies, music, and games, enabling seafarers to relax during their downtime. Furthermore, as being at sea for extended periods can be mentally challenging, internet access allows seafarers to connect with mental health resources, counseling services, or support groups, promoting mental well-being.
Latest SAFETY4SEA survey particularly highlighted that over 70% of the crew members do not experience difficulties in establishing good relationships with their colleagues and rely on high-quality internet access to maintain connections and communicate with their loved ones back on land, a need expressed by an astounding 91% of participants.
SAFETY4SEA Petition: 2 main issues to focus on
When it comes to crew welfare, we see that Internet is more than a key ingredient to seafarers’ happiness on board. Internet connection of appropriate quality and bandwidth and free access onboard can make a significant difference to life onboard. Therefore, it is imperative that discussions about the well-being and welfare of seafarers incorporate a structured consideration of internet connectivity provisions. This approach will guarantee that all the needs of seafarers are addressed on every ship.
Now is the time for all of us in the maritime industry— from seafarers, ship owners, ship managers, service providers, associations, flag administrations, manning agencies, and other maritime authorities — to raise our voices, accelerate our efforts, and work together to achieve progress on crew connectivity.
We encourage all stakeholders and seafarers to sign the petition below and join the conversation on social media, using the #Sign4FreeInternetOnboard. We feel that the following two (2) statements should be examined: :
1. Should we consider Internet Connectivity an equally important basic seafarer need, at least equally important with Food and Drinking Water?
2. Should we request a regulatory change so that seafarers should be provided with internet connectivity – free of charge during the period of engagement- of appropriate quality and bandwidth that adequately covers the requirements of the ship and takes into account the differing needs and cultural backgrounds?
Join us in signing this petition, moving the needle by confirming the statement:
Internet Connectivity is an equally important basic seafarer need, at least equally important with Food and Drinking Water for the wellness and wellbeing of seafarers. Therefore, a regulatory change should be in place to ensure that seafarers will be provided with internet connectivity – free of charge during the period of engagement- of appropriate quality and bandwidth that adequately covers the requirements of the ship and takes into account the differing needs and cultural backgrounds
Let’s raise our voices together for change. Let’s tell the world on social media to #Sign4FreeInternetOnboard
Sign the petition and join our cause for free Internet at sea! It’s time to be bold on connectivity onboard!
