IMO Sec-Gen: Every seafarer's journey is unique

On the occasion of the Day of the Seafarer 2022, IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim appraised seafarers, saying that “every seafarer’s journey is unique.”

However, he noted that seafarer’s voyages are changing, in the form of new technologies and equipment, increasing use of alternative fuels and further responsibilities for a greener and more sustainable future for the industry and for the marine environment.”

On the International Day of the Seafarer on June 25th, it is important that we all remember the challenges that seafarers have faced over the past two years and are still facing, including difficulties to effect crew changes, lack of designation as key workers and inability to access medical care and vaccines

Kitack Lim stated.

On the other hand, he expressed his concern regarding “the seizure of vessels engaged in legitimate trade outside established legal processes.” For this reason, he urged all Member States to use relevant diplomatic channels to resolve their differences so that international shipping and especially seafarers are not unduly impacted.

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As I have said in the past, seafarers and shipping should not become collateral victims of larger political issues. The welfare of seafarers and the need for international shipping to move freely and unhindered is critical to the continuous operation of global supply chains, for the benefit of all peoples of the world

For his side, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, added that “seafarers worldwide have faced immense challenges stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic — including contracts extended long beyond their expiry dates and maximum periods of service, and challenges related to vaccinations, medical care and shore leave.”

Above all, this means listening to seafarers themselves. They know better than anyone their needs and what this industry needs to do to address key challenges. This includes the expansion of social protection, better working conditions, addressing the crew-change crisis, adopting new digital tools to enhance safety and efficiency, and making this industry greener and more sustainable

Mr. Guterres concluded.

The IMO is focusing on seafarer’s experiences, voyages and journeys as the theme of the 2022 Day of the Seafarer, drawing attention to how the onboard working environment continues to change. This focus aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goal 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development. This year’s Day of the Seafarer theme – “Your voyage – then and now, share your journey” – invites seafarers across the globe to share images and information about what truly resonates with them – whether a positive experience or challenging circumstances.

Celebrating the Day of the Seafarer, SAFETY4SEA published a special column dedicated to seafarers’ wellbeing which continues to being challenged since the pandemic is not over yet while the Russia-Ukraine war has added a new dimension in the seascape.